Fork

Beginner
Жаңыртылган Sep 28, 2026

What Is a Fork?

A fork is a divergence in a blockchain network that occurs when the protocol rules change, requiring node operators to upgrade their software.

When a fork is initiated, each blockchain node has a copy of the ledger that ensures new transactions do not contradict its history. Depending on the type of fork, the network may continue as a single chain or split into two separate paths.

How Forks Work

There are two main types of forks: soft forks and hard forks. Both create a split in the transaction history of the blockchain, but they differ in compatibility and network impact.

Soft forks

A soft fork is a backward-compatible upgrade to the blockchain protocol. Nodes that do not upgrade to the newer version can still see the chain as valid, which means the network typically stays unified. Soft forks are often used to implement new features or tighten existing rules without splitting the chain. Because they do not require every node to upgrade, they are generally considered a safer approach to protocol changes.

Hard forks

A hard fork is a protocol change that is not backward compatible. Every node must upgrade to the latest version to remain active on the network. If consensus on the new rules is not unanimous, the blockchain can divide into two distinct paths, each progressing independently with its own ledger from the point of division onward. Hard forks may result in the creation of a new cryptocurrency if the split is permanent.

Summary of soft forks vs. hard forks

Feature

Soft fork

Hard fork

Compatibility

Backward-compatible

Not backward-compatible 

Old Nodes

Can still validate blocks

Updated network will reject them

Chain split

Chain remains unified 

Permanent split in chain is often created

Example

Segwit (soft forked from Bitcoin)

Bitcoin Cash (hard forked from Bitcoin)

Why Forks Matter

Forks can have a significant impact on blockchain networks and their users. They can lead to the creation of new cryptocurrencies, affect the value of existing tokens, and alter the governance structure of a network. 

For example, the split between Ethereum and Ethereum Classic occurred as a hard fork following disagreement over the decision to reverse transactions linked to the DAO hack. In contrast, Bitcoin's SegWit upgrade, activated in August 2017, is an example of a soft fork that improved transaction capacity without splitting the chain.
In June 2026, Zcash implemented a hard fork (NU6.2) to re-enable its shielded pool with a corrected circuit, demonstrating how forks remain a key mechanism for addressing technical issues and advancing protocol development.
Learn more: Hard Forks and Soft Forks Explained
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