Anti-Forking Mechanism

Definition ∞ An anti-forking mechanism is a protocol design feature intended to deter or mitigate the occurrence of blockchain forks. Forks happen when a blockchain splits into two or more separate chains, often due to differing views on transaction history or protocol upgrades. These mechanisms help maintain a single, canonical chain, which is crucial for network stability and the security of digital assets. They typically involve economic penalties or cryptographic rules to disincentivize diverging from the agreed-upon chain.
Context ∞ Anti-forking mechanisms are vital for the security and usability of decentralized networks. News frequently reports on protocol upgrades that include refined anti-forking measures, especially after contentious hard forks or security incidents. The effectiveness of these mechanisms directly influences investor confidence and the long-term viability of a blockchain project. Continuous research aims to fortify these defenses against increasingly sophisticated attacks.