Erasure Correcting Codes

Definition ∞ Erasure correcting codes are algorithms that add redundant information to data, enabling the recovery of the original data even if some parts are lost or erased. These codes allow for data reconstruction from a subset of the original pieces, significantly improving data durability and availability in distributed storage systems. They are particularly useful in environments where data loss is a common occurrence, such as peer-to-peer networks. Their application enhances the fault tolerance of digital systems.
Context ∞ Erasure correcting codes are a critical technical subject in blockchain scalability solutions, especially for data availability layers and decentralized storage networks. News often reports on new protocols leveraging these codes to reduce storage overhead for validators while ensuring that transaction data remains retrievable even if some nodes go offline. The efficiency of these codes directly impacts the overall cost and reliability of maintaining a distributed ledger.