Elliptic Curve Cryptosystems

Definition ∞ Elliptic curve cryptosystems are a class of public-key cryptography that relies on the algebraic structure of elliptic curves over finite fields. These systems are widely used for digital signatures and key exchange protocols in blockchain technology. They offer comparable security to older cryptographic methods with significantly smaller key sizes, making them more efficient for computational and storage resources.
Context ∞ Elliptic curve cryptosystems form the mathematical foundation for the security of many prominent cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum. While currently robust, research continues into post-quantum cryptography to prepare for potential threats from future quantum computers. The ongoing discussion involves evaluating the transition to quantum-resistant alternatives while maintaining the efficiency and security properties essential for digital asset integrity.