Consensus Protocols

Definition ∞ Consensus Protocols are the rules and algorithms that govern how distributed network participants agree on the validity of transactions and the state of a blockchain. These protocols ensure that all participants maintain a synchronized and accurate ledger without relying on a central authority. Examples include Proof-of-Work and Proof-of-Stake, each with distinct mechanisms for achieving agreement.
Context ∞ The ongoing development and refinement of Consensus Protocols are critical for the scalability, security, and energy efficiency of blockchain networks. Current discussions often center on the trade-offs between decentralization, security, and transaction throughput. Innovations in this area, such as sharding and novel consensus mechanisms, are frequently reported in crypto news as potential solutions to existing network limitations.