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Understanding Your Options

Different Approaches to Digital Proof

Not all proof platforms work the same way. Here's how the major approaches compare.

Four Main Approaches

Each approach has trade-offs. The right choice depends on your needs.

⛓️

Blockchain-Only Platforms

Hash content and anchor it to a blockchain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, or proprietary chains).

+Decentralized, no single point of failure
+Immutable once confirmed
−Confirmation delays (10+ minutes for Bitcoin)
−Less established in legal precedent
📜

Traditional TSA (RFC 3161)

Timestamps from accredited Time Stamp Authorities following IETF standards.

+Instant timestamps
+Established legal precedent since 2001
−Centralized (trust the TSA)
−TSA must remain operational
🔏

C2PA / Content Credentials

Industry coalition standard for media provenance (Adobe, Microsoft, Intel, etc.).

+Embedded in media files
+Edit history tracking
−Primarily for images/video
−Requires compatible software
CertNode Approach
🛡️

Multi-Layer Architecture

Combine RFC 3161 timestamps with blockchain anchoring for redundant verification.

+Instant + permanent (best of both)
+Two independent verification paths
+Legal precedent + blockchain permanence
○More complex architecture

How CertNode Works

Multi-layer timestamp architecture for maximum reliability.

LAYER 1

RFC 3161 Timestamps

  • • IETF standard since 2001
  • • Independent TSAs (FreeTSA, DigiCert)
  • • Instant verification
  • • Established legal precedent
LAYER 2

Bitcoin Anchoring

  • • OpenTimestamps protocol
  • • Merkle roots every 10 minutes
  • • Blockchain-level permanence
  • • Independent of CertNode

Result: Every CertNode receipt is backed by both RFC 3161 timestamps from independent authorities and Bitcoin blockchain anchoring — two independent verification paths.

Quick Comparison

ConsiderationBlockchain-OnlyTraditional TSAC2PAMulti-Layer
Timestamp speed10+ minInstantInstantInstant
Legal precedentEmergingEstablishedNewEstablished
DecentralizationFullCentralizedVariesHybrid
Content typesAny hashAny hashMedia filesAny content
Verification paths1112+

When to Use What

Choose blockchain-only if:

  • • Decentralization is your top priority
  • • You can wait for confirmation
  • • You're in crypto-native industries

Choose traditional TSA if:

  • • Legal compliance is critical
  • • You need instant verification
  • • You're in regulated industries

Choose C2PA if:

  • • You work primarily with images/video
  • • Edit history tracking matters
  • • You use Adobe/Microsoft tools

Choose multi-layer (CertNode) if:

  • • You need both speed and permanence
  • • Redundancy matters for disputes
  • • You want multiple verification options

Ready to Get Started?

Try CertNode's multi-layer proof infrastructure with our 60-day money-back guarantee.

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