Aggregate Signatures

Definition ∞ Aggregate signatures combine several digital signatures into one verification proof. This cryptographic primitive enables multiple signers to produce individual signatures on potentially distinct messages, which are then compressed into a single, verifiable output. The combined signature retains the integrity of each original signing event while significantly reducing the data footprint required for validation on a blockchain. This method enhances system efficiency by streamlining verification processes.
Context ∞ The discussion around aggregate signatures frequently concerns their potential to address blockchain scalability limitations and improve network throughput. Their deployment, such as with Schnorr signatures in certain protocols, represents a significant technical advancement for transaction batching and block space optimization. Continued research focuses on security properties and implementation challenges across diverse decentralized systems.