A hard fork in blockchain technology is a significant change to a network’s protocol, making previously invalid blocks and transactions valid, or vice versa. It requires all users to upgrade to the latest version of the software. This results in the blockchain splitting into two paths: one following the old protocol and one following the new version.
Hard forks can occur in any blockchain, not just Bitcoin. They are typically initiated by developers or community members dissatisfied with the existing protocol or to introduce new technology. Once a hard fork occurs, the older version often fades as users upgrade to the new version, which gains prominence over time.
Unlike soft forks, which allow gradual adoption of new rules while maintaining compatibility, hard forks create a clear divergence, requiring all users to adopt the new version.
