Blockchain Security Architecture, Platforms, and Applications: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative
paradigm for secure, decentralized data management
across diverse domains, extending far beyond its origins in
cryptocurrency. Despite its inherent attributes of
decentralization, transparency, and immutability, the rapid
evolution and widespread deployment of blockchain
systems have introduced complex security challenges that
demand systematic investigation. This paper presents a
comprehensive review of blockchain security architecture,
platforms, and applications through a structured analysis of
existing literature. It examines the layered security model
encompassing data, network, consensus, incentive, smart
contract, and application layers, identifying critical
vulnerabilities and attack vectors such as 51% attacks, Sybil
attacks, smart contract exploits, and network-level threats.
The study further evaluates major blockchain platforms—
including public, private, and consortium models—
highlighting their security mechanisms, trade-offs, and
suitability for different use cases. Additionally, the review
explores real-world applications in finance, healthcare,
supply chain, IoT, and digital ownership, emphasizing
domain-specific security implications and mitigation
strategies. By synthesizing findings across multiple research
dimensions, this work identifies prevailing challenges,
emerging trends, and research gaps, underscoring the need
for enhanced cryptographic methods, secure development
practices, and governance frameworks. The paper
contributes a holistic understanding of blockchain security
and provides insights to guide future research toward
building resilient and trustworthy blockchain ecosystems.