23n2

23n2 refers to a specific type of cryptographic hash function used in certain blockchain-based systems, particularly within the context of the Monero cryptocurrency. Monero is a privacy-focused digital currency that employs ring signatures, stealth addresses, and other privacy-enhancing technologies to obscure transaction details. The "23n2" notation is derived from the cryptographic hash function CryptoNight, which is optimized for mining on central processing units (CPUs) rather than specialized hardware like application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

The CryptoNight algorithm, including its variants like CryptoNight v7 (often associated with 23n2), is designed to be resistant to ASIC mining, promoting decentralization. The "23n2" label may also indicate a specific implementation or optimization of the algorithm, such as adjustments to the number of rounds or other parameters to enhance security or performance. These tweaks help maintain the balance between computational difficulty and resistance to large-scale mining operations.

In Monero’s blockchain, the 23n2 variant is used in the proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanism to validate transactions and secure the network. Miners compete to solve complex mathematical puzzles based on the CryptoNight algorithm, and the first to solve it is rewarded with newly minted Monero coins. The use of such algorithms ensures that mining remains accessible to individual users with standard hardware, contributing to the network’s decentralized nature.

While 23n2 is not a widely recognized term outside Monero’s ecosystem, it highlights the ongoing evolution of cryptographic techniques aimed at preserving privacy and preventing centralization in blockchain technology.