Fault Tolerance Threshold

Definition ∞ The Fault Tolerance Threshold defines the maximum number of component failures or malicious actions a distributed system can withstand while still functioning correctly and maintaining its integrity. It quantifies a system’s resilience against disruptions, whether accidental or intentional. Exceeding this limit compromises the system’s reliability and consistency.
Context ∞ In blockchain technology, the fault tolerance threshold is a critical security parameter, particularly for consensus mechanisms like Proof of Stake or Byzantine Fault Tolerance. Protocols are designed to operate securely as long as the number of dishonest participants remains below this threshold. This concept directly influences the robustness and trustworthiness of decentralized networks against adversarial conditions.