Definition ∞ The DAR Model, or Data Availability and Retention Model, describes the architectural approach for ensuring that transactional data within a blockchain or distributed ledger system is consistently accessible and durably stored. This model dictates how network participants can verify historical transactions and current states. It is fundamental for the integrity and verifiability of decentralized networks. This ensures the trustworthiness of blockchain data.
Context ∞ In the context of layer-2 scaling solutions and modular blockchain designs, the DAR Model is a central discussion point concerning data sharding and data availability layers. The current challenge involves optimizing data availability without compromising decentralization or increasing computational overhead for validators. Future advancements aim to improve the efficiency and security of data storage and retrieval across interconnected blockchain ecosystems. These improvements are vital for scalable and secure blockchain operations.