Consensus Protocol Upgrade

Definition ∞ A Consensus Protocol Upgrade refers to a modification of the fundamental rules governing how participants agree on the state of a blockchain. This process alters the algorithms that ensure data integrity and transaction finality across the distributed ledger. Such changes typically aim to enhance scalability, security, or decentralization. It is a critical event requiring broad network agreement to implement.
Context ∞ News coverage frequently highlights consensus protocol upgrades due to their significant impact on a blockchain’s future trajectory and market perception. These events often involve extensive community discussion and technical preparation, sometimes leading to hard forks if agreement is not universal. The success or failure of an upgrade can substantially influence investor confidence and the operational efficiency of the digital asset.