Permissioned Ledgers

Definition ∞ Permissioned ledgers are distributed ledger technologies where participation in the network, such as validating transactions or accessing data, requires prior authorization. Unlike public, permissionless blockchains, these systems restrict who can write to or sometimes even read the ledger, often through identity verification mechanisms. They are typically used by consortia of organizations that require a shared, immutable record but also demand control over network participants. This design offers enhanced privacy and transaction speed for specific enterprise applications.
Context ∞ Permissioned ledgers are widely adopted in enterprise blockchain solutions, particularly in finance, supply chain management, and healthcare, where regulatory compliance and data confidentiality are critical. The main discussion point involves their trade-offs compared to public blockchains, specifically regarding decentralization versus control and operational efficiency. Future developments focus on interoperability between permissioned and public networks to bridge these distinct environments.