Which type of blockchain allows unrestricted access to view and validate transactions?

A public blockchain allows unrestricted access to view and validate transactions, making it transparent and open to anyone who wishes to participate. This type of blockchain is decentralized and does not require permission to join the network or participate in the validation of transactions. Consequently, all transactions are accessible for anyone to view, and validators are typically incentivized through rewards for their efforts in maintaining the network.

Public blockchains, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, embody the principle of decentralization, where the leadership and governance of the network are distributed across all participants. This openness ensures that any individual can verify the integrity of the blockchain by accessing its entire ledger, promoting trust through transparency and reducing the reliance on a central authority.

In contrast, other types of blockchains—such as private, hybrid, and permissioned blockchains—restrict access and typically involve more controlled environments where certain entities or individuals have the authority to manage and validate transactions. These attributes do not apply to a public blockchain, which fundamentally exists to provide unrestricted access and validation opportunities to all.