Definition ∞ A Folding Scheme is a computational method used in zero-knowledge proofs for efficiently verifying a sequence of computations. It involves iteratively compressing multiple proofs into a single, smaller proof. This technique significantly reduces the computational cost and storage requirements for verifying complex operations on a blockchain. It enhances scalability and privacy in decentralized systems.
Context ∞ Folding schemes are a rapidly advancing area within zero-knowledge cryptography, frequently discussed in news related to blockchain scaling solutions. Developers are actively researching and implementing these schemes to improve the performance of rollups and other layer-2 protocols. The ongoing development aims to make complex on-chain computations more practical and cost-effective.