How to Set Up and Use Coincoin: An Elixir-based Cryptocurrency

Jun 24, 2022 | Blockchain

Coincoin is an intriguing proof-of-concept cryptocurrency implemented in Elixir, designed to demystify the complexities of blockchain and digital transactions. Let’s dive into how you can set it up and start using it yourself!

Setting Up Coincoin

To embark on this journey, you’ll need to set up multiple nodes and connect them to create a peer-to-peer (P2P) network. Here’s how to get started:

Prerequisites

  • Ensure you have Elixir installed on your machine.

Clone the Repository

Clone the Coincoin repository to your local machine and navigate to the project root directory in your terminal.

Pull Dependencies

Run the following command to pull the necessary dependencies:

mix deps.get

Spawning Nodes

Now, you’ll need to spawn three terminals (node1, node2, and node3) and run the following commands:

  • For node1:
  • iex -S mix phx.server
  • For node2:
  • PORT=4001 P2P_PORT=5001 iex -S mix phx.server
  • For node3:
  • PORT=4002 P2P_PORT=5002 iex -S mix phx.server

Connecting the Nodes

To connect your nodes and form a P2P network, use the following commands:

node2 Blockchain.connect(localhost:5000)
node3 Blockchain.connect(localhost:5001)

Final Configuration

This will establish a simple network structure like this: node1 — node2 — node3.

If you’re using Docker, you can run Coincoin using its Docker image with:

docker run -it robinmonjocoincoin

Understanding the Code with an Analogy

Think of setting up the Coincoin blockchain as arranging a relay race. Each node represents a runner, and they need to connect seamlessly to pass along the baton (or in this case, blockchain data).

  • Node1 (the first runner) starts the race by launching the server and waiting for the next runner.
  • Node2 and Node3 (the subsequent runners) get their unique identifiers (ports), ensuring they can communicate effectively.
  • When it’s time, the second runner (Node2) connects to the first to receive the baton and then hands it over to the third runner (Node3).

This smooth handoff between runners is akin to how data flows through the Coincoin P2P network, creating a cohesive blockchain environment!

Using Coincoin

When these applications are started, the following four apps are initiated:

  • [blockchain](apps/blockchain/README.md): A minimal blockchain
  • [token](apps/token/README.md): A cryptocurrency built on top of the blockchain
  • [blockchain_web](apps/blockchain_web/README.md): A web interface for node management

You can experiment with the blockchain, store random data, interact via REST API, or even utilize the distributed ledger for cryptocurrency transactions!

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

  • Ensure that each terminal is running the correct commands as outlined.
  • Double-check your Elixir installation.
  • Verify that your network settings allow communication between nodes.

For more insights, updates, or to collaborate on AI development projects, stay connected with fxis.ai.

Final Remarks

Coincoin serves as a fascinating entry point into the world of cryptocurrency and blockchain development with Elixir. Your feedback, issue reports, and suggestions are highly cherished!

At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations.

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