“Next-Generation Cybersecurity Through Blockchain and AI Synergy: A Paradigm Shift in Intelligent Threat Mitigation and Decentralised Securityâ€

The accelerating digitisation of modern enterprises and infrastructures has amplified cybersecurity risks, exposing critical systems to increasingly intelligent and multi-vector attacks. Traditional, rule-based security mechanisms, while historically effective, are proving inadequate in the face of evolving threats such as zero-day exploits, advanced persistent threats (APTs), insider intrusions, and ransomware. To address these challenges, this study proposes a next-generation cybersecurity framework that synergistically integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain technologies to create a resilient, intelligent, and decentralised security ecosystem. The research adopts a mixed-method design encompassing system architecture modelling, smart contract development, AI model training, and simulation-based evaluation. The proposed multi-layered architecture comprises four components: (1) a Blockchain-based data layer for immutable logging and distributed trust; (2) an AI-driven intelligence layer leveraging models such as Random Forest, XGBoost, LSTM, and Autoencoders for real-time threat detection and anomaly analysis; (3) a consensus layer to validate events and enforce decentralized governance; and (4) an interface layer providing dashboard access and policy control. Experimental implementation using Hyperledger Fabric and TensorFlow demonstrated superior performance in detection accuracy, response time, resilience against adversarial attacks, and scalability, compared to traditional AI-only or Blockchain-only models. Furthermore, the integrated system significantly reduced false-positive rates while enabling tamper-proof audit trails and automated incident response through smart contracts. Case applications across critical infrastructure, financial services, healthcare, and government systems illustrate its transformative potential. This research contributes a novel architectural paradigm that addresses current limitations in cybersecurity by leveraging AI’s predictive analytics with Blockchain’s decentralised integrity. The findings advocate for a paradigm shift toward intelligent, self-healing, and trustless cybersecurity solutions suitable for the demands of next-generation digital ecosystems.