Definition ∞ Asynchronous Byzantine Fault Tolerance, or Asynchronous BFT, is a class of consensus algorithms that can reach agreement among distributed nodes even when some nodes behave maliciously and message delivery times are unpredictable. It ensures network operation without relying on synchronized clocks or fixed message delays. This property is essential for highly resilient decentralized systems operating in adverse network conditions. It provides strong safety guarantees despite network disruptions.
Context ∞ Asynchronous BFT algorithms are central to discussions about the security and liveness of various blockchain protocols, especially those aiming for high transaction throughput. A key debate involves balancing the complexity of these protocols with their performance characteristics. Researchers continue to refine Asynchronous BFT designs to achieve greater efficiency and broader applicability in real-world digital asset applications.