Platform Architecture

Definition ∞ Platform architecture refers to the fundamental design and organizational structure of a digital platform, including its components, their relationships, and the principles guiding its construction. This design determines how the platform functions, scales, and supports various applications or services. It encompasses both hardware and software considerations.
Context ∞ For blockchain networks and digital assets, platform architecture is a critical determinant of a protocol’s performance, security, and decentralization. Aspects like sharding, layer-two solutions, or consensus mechanisms directly influence a platform’s capabilities. News often reports on architectural upgrades or new designs that aim to enhance efficiency or address existing limitations within the crypto ecosystem.