Implementation of a University Digital Token over a Peer-to-Peer Network

Level of Education of Students Involved

Undergraduate

Faculty Sponsor

Haydar Cukurtepe

College

College of Arts & Sciences (CAS)

Discipline(s)

Computer Science

ORCID Identifier(s)

0009-0000-9202-6248

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-30-2026

Abstract

This project aims to explore and simulate a decentralized token-based system over a peer-to-peer network which rewards students for attending academic events. The system is written in Python, using the built-in socket function for Transmission Control Protocol connections and JSON for message formatting. It is fully decentralized, with each node functioning as both a client and a server. Nodes maintain lists of their peers which may be shared with other nodes, quickly populating even new nodes with contacts. Messages may be broadcast to all nodes in a given node’s peer list. Each node contains its own locally generated identifiers, including a private key, public key, and wallet address. The wallet stores, sends and receives tokens, with a public address which is used for transfers. Nodes are fully responsible for the transaction history, limiting dependence on peers. Transactions are then able to be verified using the ledger and digital signatures. Synchronizing distributed ledgers and debugging asynchronous behavior proved to be a challenge, given the decentralized nature of the system. Overall, the project highlights key challenges and considerations in building a decentralized system, including peer-to-peer connections, synchronization, and transaction security.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Zach Faga is a sophomore at Valparaiso University, majoring in Computer Science. He is pursuing a holistic understanding of different computer technologies, with this project serving as an exploration of networking principles.

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