X11 Algorithm | cryptocurrencies, blockchains & live prices

X11 is a chained hashing algorithm that sequentially applies eleven different cryptographic hash functions to produce a final output. The eleven functions are BLAKE, Blue Midnight Wish (BMW), Grøstl, JH, Keccak, Skein, Luffa, CubeHash, SHAvite-3, SIMD, and ECHO. Each function processes the output of the previous one, creating a layered security approach where the overall strength does not depend on any single hash function. X11 was created by Evan Duffield in 2014 specifically for the Dash cryptocurrency (originally called Darkcoin).

The multi-algorithm design of X11 provides several notable properties. By chaining eleven different functions, the algorithm offers defense in depth — even if one or two of the underlying hash functions were found to be vulnerable, the remaining functions would still protect the integrity of the chain. X11 was also found to be more energy-efficient than single-algorithm approaches like SHA-256, producing approximately 30-50% less heat during mining operations. Initially, this multi-function design provided significant ASIC resistance due to the complexity of implementing all eleven algorithms in hardware, though dedicated X11 ASICs were eventually developed by 2016.

X11 was introduced with the launch of Dash (then Darkcoin) in January 2014 and quickly became one of the most popular alternative mining algorithms. Dash pioneered the use of X11 alongside its innovative masternode system and InstantSend features. The algorithm inspired a family of related chained hashing algorithms including X13, X15, and X17, each extending the concept with additional hash functions. Beyond Dash, X11 has been adopted by other cryptocurrencies including Pura, Monetary Unit, and several smaller projects.