SegWit
SegWit (Segregated Witness) is a protocol upgrade for Bitcoin and other blockchain networks that separates transaction signatures (witness data) from transaction data, effectively increasing block capacity and enabling new features like the Lightning Network. It was implemented in Bitcoin in 2017 to address scalability issues and reduce transaction malleability. By restructuring how data is stored, SegWit allows more transactions per block without increasing the block size limit.
Developers should learn SegWit when working on Bitcoin-based applications, wallets, or exchanges to improve transaction efficiency, reduce fees, and support advanced features like second-layer solutions. It's essential for implementing scalability improvements and ensuring compatibility with modern Bitcoin protocols, particularly in environments where high transaction throughput or lower costs are priorities.