Committee Consensus

Definition ∞ Committee consensus refers to a system where a select group of designated entities is responsible for validating transactions and achieving agreement on the state of a distributed ledger. These committee members are typically chosen based on specific criteria or through a predefined selection process. Their collective agreement is required to confirm new blocks and maintain the integrity of the network. This approach contrasts with systems where consensus is reached by a broader set of network participants.
Context ∞ Committee consensus mechanisms are often observed in permissioned or consortium blockchains where operational efficiency and control are prioritized. The current discourse often centers on the security implications, potential for censorship, and the governance structures that govern the selection and behavior of committee members. Analysis of these systems is pertinent when examining enterprise blockchain solutions or networks with specific regulatory compliance needs.