An in-depth investigation of the performance characteristics of Hyperledger Fabric. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Guggenberger, Tobias; Sedlmeir, Johannes; Fridgen, Gilbert; Luckow, André
• Is Part Of: Computers & industrial engineering. Volume 173(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Benchmarking -- Blockchain -- Distributed ledger -- Scalability -- Supply chain -- Throughput; Engineering -- Data processing -- Periodicals; Industrial engineering -- Periodicals; 620.00285
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cie.2022.108716
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-8352

Abstract

Abstract: Private permissioned blockchains are deployed in ever greater numbers to facilitate cross-organizational processes in various industries, particularly in supply chain management. One popular example of this trend is Hyperledger Fabric. Compared to public permissionless blockchains, it promises improved performance and provides certain features that address key requirements of enterprises. However, also permissioned blockchains are still not as scalable as centralized systems, and due to the scarcity of theoretical results and empirical data, their real-world performance cannot be predicted with the necessary precision. We intend to address this issue by conducting an in-depth performance analysis of Hyperledger Fabric. The paper presents a detailed compilation of various performance characteristics using an enhanced version of the Distributed Ledger Performance Scan (DLPS). Researchers and practitioners alike can use the various performance properties identified and discussed as guidelines to better configure and implement their Hyperledger Fabric network. Likewise, they are encouraged to use the DLPS framework to conduct their measurements. Graphical abstract: Highlights: Performance is a widely acknowledged challenge for industrial blockchains. Numerous parameters impact Fabric's maximum throughput; latency is consistently low. Hardware, database, network size, and privacy can have a high impact on throughput. Fabric offers good performance even in large intercontinental supply chain networks.