Block Centralization

Definition ∞ Block centralization describes a condition where the authority to produce or validate new blocks on a blockchain network becomes concentrated among a limited number of participants. This situation can compromise the network’s decentralized structure. Such concentration may arise from significant resource requirements or economic incentives.
Context ∞ The distribution of mining or staking power in proof-of-work and proof-of-stake blockchain systems remains a persistent subject of scrutiny. Concerns about block centralization often relate to potential security risks, such as collusion or censorship, and the long-term resilience of the network against external pressures or internal manipulation.