Distributed System Architecture

Definition ∞ Distributed System Architecture refers to the design and organization of a software system where components are located on different networked computers, communicating and coordinating their actions to achieve a common goal. This design principle underpins blockchain technology, allowing for decentralization, fault tolerance, and scalability. It contrasts with centralized systems by distributing processing and data storage across multiple independent nodes. The effectiveness of such an architecture relies on robust communication protocols and consensus mechanisms.
Context ∞ Discussions in crypto news frequently address the strengths and weaknesses of various distributed system architectures concerning their security, speed, and decentralization levels. Major protocol upgrades often involve significant architectural changes to address bottlenecks or enhance specific performance metrics. The evolution of these architectures remains a central theme in the ongoing development of digital asset infrastructure.