Hybrid Consensus

Definition ∞ Hybrid consensus refers to a system that combines elements from two or more different consensus mechanisms to achieve network agreement. This approach aims to leverage the strengths of each constituent mechanism while mitigating their individual weaknesses. For instance, a hybrid system might blend aspects of proof-of-work and proof-of-stake to balance security, decentralization, and transaction speed. Such designs are often employed to optimize network performance and resilience.
Context ∞ The development and adoption of hybrid consensus models are a significant trend in blockchain architecture, aiming to improve scalability and security. News regarding protocols that integrate different consensus algorithms, such as combining Proof-of-Stake with Byzantine Fault Tolerance variations, are frequent. Discussions often center on the trade-offs between decentralization, security, and transaction finality inherent in these combined approaches, and their suitability for various blockchain applications.