Definition ∞ Outsourced Proving describes a cryptographic technique where a computationally intensive proof generation task is delegated to a specialized, external service or entity. This allows resource-constrained devices or networks to verify complex computations without performing them directly. The prover generates a succinct proof that a verifier can quickly check, ensuring the integrity of the computation without needing to trust the prover.
Context ∞ The concept of Outsourced Proving is gaining prominence in scaling solutions for blockchain networks, particularly with zero-knowledge proofs, to reduce on-chain computational burdens. Debates often focus on the security assumptions and trust models involved when relying on external provers. Future developments aim to decentralize these proving services further, enhancing both efficiency and censorship resistance for blockchain applications.