Permissionless Consensus

Definition ∞ This describes a consensus mechanism where any participant can join the network and contribute to the validation process without requiring explicit permission or approval. It is a foundational aspect of many public blockchains, allowing for decentralized operation. Such mechanisms rely on game theory and economic incentives to secure the network.
Context ∞ ‘Permissionless Consensus’ is a core tenet of decentralized networks, frequently discussed when evaluating the censorship resistance and decentralization of blockchain protocols. News reports may contrast permissionless systems with their permissioned counterparts, highlighting the implications for network governance and accessibility. Understanding this concept is vital for assessing the degree of decentralization and security in various blockchain implementations.