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Cryptographic Consensus Mechanism

Definition

A cryptographic consensus mechanism is a protocol that enables distributed network participants to agree on the state of a ledger, ensuring data integrity and preventing double-spending. This mechanism uses cryptographic proofs to validate transactions and blocks, establishing a shared, immutable record without a central authority. Examples include Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Stake (PoS), each with distinct methods for achieving agreement. It forms the security foundation of blockchain systems.