Consensus Model

Definition ∞ A consensus model describes the mechanism by which a decentralized network agrees on the validity of transactions and the order of blocks in a blockchain. This system ensures all participants maintain a consistent and accurate record of the ledger. Different models, such as Proof of Work or Proof of Stake, each offer distinct trade-offs in terms of security, scalability, and decentralization. The chosen model significantly shapes a blockchain’s operational characteristics.
Context ∞ The ongoing evolution and adoption of various consensus models represent a central theme in blockchain technology news. Debates often weigh the energy consumption of Proof of Work against the potential for centralization in some Proof of Stake implementations. A critical future development involves the refinement of existing models and the exploration of novel approaches to achieve optimal balance across key performance metrics.