Definition ∞ A Complexity-Preserving SNARK is a type of Succinct Non-interactive ARgument of Knowledge that maintains the computational complexity of verifying a statement proportional to the statement’s original complexity. Unlike standard SNARKs which offer very short verification times regardless of the computation size, these variants are designed for specific applications where preserving a relationship to the original computation cost is relevant. They provide cryptographic proof of computation integrity without revealing underlying data. This cryptographic primitive is a component in privacy-enhancing technologies within blockchain systems.
Context ∞ The discussion around Complexity-Preserving SNARKs often arises in advanced cryptographic research and the development of specialized privacy solutions for blockchain. While standard SNARKs prioritize minimal verification cost, these particular SNARKs are relevant for scenarios demanding certain properties related to the proof generation or verification process that align with the original computation’s difficulty. Their utility is primarily within niche applications requiring specific proof structures rather than universal efficiency.