Exploring Decentralized Key Generation Protocol on Webb
Using the DKG Explorer to learn about governance in Webb's tools.
The Webb ecosystem utilizes a Distributed Key Generation (DKG) protocol to govern the Anchor system. In essence, the DKG serves as a security mechanism for the Anchor System, meaning that bridge updates are considered valid only if they bear the DKG's signature. Consequently, the system's security depends on the DKG signing the accurate data it is intended to sign.
In this blog post, we'll delve into Webb's DKG Explorer, a web application that enables users to have visibility into the DKG protocol that is running on the Tangle Network. Let's explore how this application can enhance your understanding of distributed key generation and provide insights into the inner workings of the Tangle Network. If you are unfamiliar with how distributed key generation protocols work, or are interested in learning about the protocol specifically, please refer to our dedicated docs page here, and our DKG Explorer usage guide here.
Webb's DKG Explorer: An Overview
Webb's DKG Explorer (https://stats.webb.tools) is a dynamic application designed to offer users an interactive and accessible way to visualize the DKG process. With its user-friendly interface and data-rich insights, users can effortlessly track the progress of DKG sessions, monitor the status of authorities, and follow the flow of signed and unsigned proposals. Key features of the DKG Explorer include:
- DKG Session Progress: This feature provides a visual representation of the current DKG session, detailing the number of completed sessions, the number of participants involved, and the time remaining in the current session.
- DKG Public Key Rotation: Users can conveniently view the current public key used for signing proposals, the anticipated rotation from the current public key to the next one, and the authorities that participated in the key generation process.
- Authority Status: Users can keep track of the status of each participating authority, with data on their online presence, participation rate, and the key shares they have generated.
- Network Thresholds: Users can effortlessly view the network threshold parameters for a given session, specifically the keygen and signature thresholds, along with the active best authorities.
- Proposal Tracking: Users can observe inbound unsigned proposals and track their journey to becoming signed proposals. The proposal threshold and active proposers are also displayed, providing a comprehensive view of the origin of proposal submission to the DKG protocol.
The DKG Explorer’s proposal monitoring provides transparency in the governing of the Anchor System. The Proposals tab (https://stats.webb.tools/#/proposals) provides an in-depth look at the proposal system and allows users to track and analyze the progress of ongoing proposals, as well as view historical data.
Understanding Proposals in Webb's DKG Explorer
Proposals are an essential component of the decentralized governance process. A proposal simply is a message that is voted on which suggests a change in the merkle roots or system. By using the Proposals tab on Webb's DKG Explorer, users can access the following information:
- Proposal List: The main page displays a list of proposals, including the proposal type, statuses (e.g., Open, Signed), proposers, and block number the proposal was opened or signed on. Users can sort and filter proposals based on these attributes to quickly find the information they need.
- Detailed Proposal View: By clicking on a specific proposal, users can access more detailed information, such as the proposer's address, the proposal timeline, and the current tally of votes.
- Proposal History: The Proposals tab maintains a historical record of past proposals, enabling users to analyze trends and patterns over time.
Webb's DKG Explorer serves as a comprehensive tool that offers users an in-depth understanding of the distributed key generation protocol, its role in the governance of the Anchor System, and the inner workings of the Tangle Network. By providing valuable insights, real-time monitoring of DKG sessions, and detailed proposal tracking, the DKG Explorer empowers users to actively participate in and comprehend the decentralized governance process. Webb's DKG Explorer will play a vital role in promoting knowledge and fostering informed decision-making within the community. If you are interested in contributing to Webb’s DKG Explorer please review these repositories:
- GraphQL-API: https://github.com/webb-tools/webb-graphql
- Front-end: https://github.com/webb-tools/webb-dapp
