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Distributed Consensus Protocol

Definition

A distributed consensus protocol is a set of rules that enables independent computers in a network to agree on a single data value or state. This protocol is essential for decentralized systems like blockchains, ensuring that all participating nodes maintain an identical and accurate copy of the ledger, even if some nodes fail or attempt to act maliciously. It forms the backbone of data integrity and security, allowing for trustless operation across a geographically dispersed network. Examples include Proof-of-Work and Proof-of-Stake, which coordinate agreement without a central authority.