Definition ∞ Core operations are the fundamental activities and processes defining a blockchain network’s primary function. These encompass essential functions required for a decentralized system to run, such as transaction processing, block validation, consensus mechanism execution, and state management. Without these foundational activities, the blockchain or decentralized application cannot perform its intended purpose.
Context ∞ Ensuring the integrity and efficiency of core operations is paramount for any blockchain project, directly influencing its security, scalability, and reliability. News reports frequently cover upgrades or incidents related to these foundational processes. They critically impact user experience and network performance.