Definition ∞ Polynomial Complexity refers to the computational resources, typically time or memory, required by an algorithm or process that scales polynomially with the size of its input. In blockchain systems, this indicates that as the number of transactions or data points increases, the computational demand grows at a manageable rate. Algorithms with polynomial complexity are generally considered efficient and practical for real-world applications. This metric is critical for assessing the scalability and viability of decentralized protocols.
Context ∞ Understanding polynomial complexity is essential when evaluating the scalability and long-term viability of blockchain protocols and cryptographic algorithms. News regarding network upgrades or new consensus mechanisms often references their computational complexity. Developers strive to design systems that maintain polynomial complexity to ensure they can handle increasing transaction loads without becoming prohibitively slow or resource-intensive.
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