Definition ∞ Linear overhead describes a computational or resource cost that increases proportionally with the size of the input data or the number of operations. In the context of blockchain and distributed systems, it refers to the additional resources required that scale directly with the workload. Minimizing linear overhead is a design goal for efficient protocols, as it directly impacts scalability and cost-effectiveness. Efficient systems aim for sub-linear or constant overhead where possible.
Context ∞ Managing computational resources and transaction costs is a persistent challenge for blockchain scalability. Protocols constantly seek to reduce linear overhead associated with processing transactions, verifying proofs, or storing data. Discussions often involve the trade-offs between security, decentralization, and the efficiency gains achieved by reducing linear overhead. Ongoing research focuses on zero-knowledge proofs and other cryptographic techniques that offer logarithmic or even constant overhead for verification, thereby significantly improving network performance.
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