Linear Scalability

Definition ∞ Linear Scalability describes a system’s ability to increase its processing capacity proportionally with the addition of more resources, such as validators or nodes. In blockchain contexts, this means transaction throughput grows directly with increased participation or computational power. It contrasts with systems where performance gains diminish with added resources. Achieving linear scalability is a significant goal for high-demand decentralized networks.
Context ∞ The pursuit of Linear Scalability remains a critical technical challenge and a primary focus for blockchain developers aiming to support widespread adoption. Discussions frequently address various scaling solutions, including sharding and parallel processing, designed to achieve this proportional increase in capacity. A key debate involves balancing linear scalability with the preservation of decentralization and security. Future research and development will likely concentrate on novel architectural designs and consensus mechanisms that can sustain linear performance improvements without compromising core blockchain principles.