Decentralized Network

Definition ∞ A Decentralized Network is a system where control and data are distributed across multiple nodes rather than being concentrated in a central server or authority. This architecture enhances resilience, censorship resistance, and often promotes greater transparency. Participants in such networks typically operate on a peer-to-peer basis.
Context ∞ The ongoing evolution of decentralized networks is a critical aspect of the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry, with current discussions focusing on scalability solutions, governance models, and the security implications of distributed architectures. Debates often revolve around the trade-offs between decentralization and performance, as well as the development of new consensus mechanisms. Future developments are likely to involve further refinement of these networks to support a wider array of applications and a larger user base.