Hybrid Consensus Model

Definition ∞ A hybrid consensus model combines two or more distinct consensus mechanisms to validate transactions and secure a blockchain network. This approach aims to leverage the strengths of different models while mitigating their individual weaknesses. For instance, a common hybrid might pair Proof-of-Work for security with Proof-of-Stake for faster finality or greater scalability. The integration seeks to achieve a balanced protocol design that optimizes for decentralization, security, and performance.
Context ∞ Hybrid consensus models are frequently discussed in the context of blockchain evolution and the pursuit of optimal protocol design. News often reports on projects experimenting with these models to address the “blockchain trilemma” of balancing security, scalability, and decentralization. Debates revolve around the complexity of integrating different mechanisms and ensuring the combined system remains robust against attacks, while offering tangible improvements over single-mechanism approaches.