Definition ∞ Adversarial networks, in a general computing sense, refer to systems or groups of entities operating with hostile intent against a target system. In machine learning, Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) involve two competing neural networks, a generator and a discriminator, learning from each other. This dynamic competition aims to produce highly realistic synthetic data. The generator creates data, while the discriminator attempts to distinguish real data from generated data.
Context ∞ While GANs are primarily a machine learning concept, the broader idea of adversarial networks appears in crypto news when discussing security threats or sophisticated market manipulations. The term may also apply to groups of malicious actors coordinating to undermine a blockchain protocol or digital asset exchange. Awareness of such coordinated threats is important for understanding market stability and security measures.