Definition ∞ A computational puzzle is a problem requiring significant computational effort to solve but is easy to verify. In blockchain, this typically refers to the proof-of-work mechanism, where miners compete to find a specific hash value by performing numerous calculations. Solving these puzzles secures the network by making it costly to alter transaction history.
Context ∞ The debate around the environmental impact of proof-of-work blockchains centers on the energy consumption associated with solving these puzzles. Innovations in consensus mechanisms, such as proof-of-stake, aim to replace or reduce the reliance on computationally intensive puzzles, influencing network security and decentralization discussions.
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