Distributed Ledger Systems

Definition ∞ Distributed Ledger Systems, or DLS, are digital records of transactions or data maintained across multiple computers simultaneously. Unlike traditional databases, DLS lack a central administrator, with each participant maintaining and validating a copy of the ledger. Cryptographic principles secure these records, ensuring their immutability and integrity once added to the chain. Blockchain technology is a specific type of distributed ledger system, characterized by its chaining of data blocks.
Context ∞ Distributed Ledger Systems hold substantial potential for transforming various industries by offering enhanced transparency, security, and operational efficiency. Regulatory bodies worldwide are examining how to supervise these systems without stifling innovation. Scalability and interoperability between different DLS platforms present ongoing technical hurdles for broader adoption. The evolution of these systems continues to influence global financial infrastructure and data management practices.