Fault-Tolerant Protocols

Definition ∞ Fault-Tolerant Protocols are computational systems designed to continue operating correctly even when certain components fail or behave unexpectedly. These protocols incorporate redundancy and error-handling mechanisms to ensure reliability and availability in the face of faults. In decentralized networks, this capability is essential for maintaining network integrity and processing transactions despite node failures or malicious actors. They are fundamental for robust distributed systems.
Context ∞ In blockchain and digital asset discussions, Fault-Tolerant Protocols are a central aspect of consensus mechanism design and network security. News often highlights new protocols or upgrades that improve a system’s ability to withstand attacks or outages, such as advancements in Byzantine Fault Tolerance. The resilience provided by these protocols is critical for the trust and stability of cryptocurrencies and decentralized applications. Their effectiveness directly impacts the dependability of digital asset infrastructure.