Computation DAG

Definition ∞ A Computation DAG, or Directed Acyclic Graph, represents a sequence of computational tasks where each task depends on the completion of prior tasks, forming a flow without circular dependencies. In blockchain contexts, this structure can organize transactions or operations, allowing for parallel processing of independent branches. This architectural design enhances throughput and scalability by enabling multiple operations to proceed concurrently. It provides a flexible framework for ordering and executing complex sets of instructions in distributed systems.
Context ∞ Computation DAGs are a focal point in discussions about next-generation blockchain architectures aiming to surmount scalability limitations prevalent in earlier designs. The ongoing debate concerns the trade-offs between the increased transaction capacity offered by DAGs and the complexities they introduce regarding transaction finality and security mechanisms. Researchers and developers are actively working on optimizing consensus protocols for DAG-based systems to ensure both efficiency and robust data integrity. Observing their adoption in high-performance decentralized applications will be key.