Blockchain Liveness

Definition ∞ Blockchain liveness refers to the capacity of a decentralized network to continuously process and confirm new transactions. A system with strong liveness ensures that honest participants can always add new blocks to the chain. This characteristic is vital for the ongoing utility and functionality of any digital asset system. It prevents network stagnation and censorship by maintaining continuous operation.
Context ∞ Reports on network outages or transaction backlogs often highlight issues related to blockchain liveness. The ability of a blockchain to remain active and responsive is a key indicator of its operational health. Debates concerning different consensus protocols frequently weigh their respective strengths in guaranteeing consistent liveness. This property is essential for reliable transaction settlement and user experience in digital asset applications.