Decentralization Measurement

Definition ∞ Decentralization measurement involves quantifying the distribution of control, influence, and resources within a blockchain network or digital asset system. This analytical process assesses various factors, such as the number of validators, token distribution, mining power concentration, and governance participation. The objective is to determine the extent to which a system avoids single points of failure or centralized authority. These measurements provide data-driven insights into a network’s resilience and censorship resistance.
Context ∞ Debates surrounding decentralization measurement are prominent in crypto news, as the degree of decentralization is a core tenet of blockchain technology. New methodologies or metrics for evaluating this attribute are frequently discussed, often in response to concerns about increasing centralization in certain protocols or mining pools. Regulatory bodies also consider decentralization levels when classifying digital assets, making accurate measurement vital for policy discussions and market perception.