Availability

Definition ∞ Availability refers to the state of a digital asset, network, or service being accessible and operational for users. In blockchain contexts, it signifies the network’s uptime and the ability to process transactions without interruption. High availability is a key metric for assessing the reliability of decentralized systems and the accessibility of digital assets. Ensuring consistent availability is paramount for user confidence and the sustained functioning of the ecosystem.
Context ∞ News reports frequently address network congestion, planned maintenance, or external attacks that impact the availability of cryptocurrencies or decentralized applications. Discussions often revolve around the resilience of blockchain infrastructure and the redundancy measures in place to maintain service continuity. The perceived availability of a digital asset can significantly influence its market perception and adoption rates.