Definition ∞ NP-hard problems are a class of computational problems for which finding a solution is exceptionally difficult, often requiring exponential time relative to the input size. No known efficient algorithm exists to solve these problems generally. They are considered at least as hard as the hardest problems in NP, meaning their solutions are difficult to verify quickly. These problems present significant computational challenges.
Context ∞ While a theoretical computer science concept, NP-hard problems are relevant in blockchain for understanding the computational difficulty underlying proof-of-work mechanisms, where miners solve such complex puzzles. News might refer to the computational complexity of certain cryptographic functions or optimization challenges within decentralized networks. The inherent difficulty of these problems is sometimes leveraged for network security.
Blockchain Knowledge
Cryptocurrency Foundation
Cryptospace Newsfeed
