Asynchronous Network Model

Definition ∞ An asynchronous network model allows different parts of a system to operate independently without strict timing coordination. In blockchain, this model means nodes do not need to process transactions or blocks at the exact same moment. Participants communicate messages, and these messages are eventually delivered, but there is no guaranteed upper bound on message delivery time. This approach helps maintain network functionality even with varying processing speeds or temporary disconnections among participants. It prioritizes eventual consistency over immediate, simultaneous updates across all nodes.
Context ∞ Discussions surrounding asynchronous network models frequently relate to blockchain scalability and fault tolerance. Projects aiming for higher transaction throughput often leverage asynchronous communication patterns to reduce bottlenecks. Understanding this model is crucial when evaluating the resilience and performance claims of new distributed ledger technologies, especially concerning their ability to handle network partitions or delays without halting operations.