Definition ∞ Proof-carried computation is a system where a computation’s result is accompanied by a cryptographic proof verifying its correctness. This proof allows any observer to confirm the computation’s validity without re-executing the entire process. It enhances trust and efficiency in distributed systems by enabling verifiable off-chain computation. This method ensures that even complex operations performed externally can be attested to on a blockchain.
Context ∞ The discussion around proof-carried computation centers on its utility for scaling blockchain networks and enabling verifiable off-chain processing. A critical future development involves optimizing the generation and verification of these proofs to reduce computational overhead. News reports often reference this concept in discussions about zero-knowledge rollups or other layer-2 scaling solutions that rely on cryptographic assurances for state transitions. It addresses the challenge of verifying complex operations efficiently.
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