Proxy Patterns

Definition ∞ Proxy patterns in smart contract development refer to an architectural design where a simple, unchanging proxy contract delegates calls to an upgradable implementation contract. This allows the logic of a smart contract to be modified or upgraded without changing the contract’s address or users’ asset balances. It addresses the immutability constraint of blockchain, enabling iterative development and bug fixes. This pattern is vital for maintaining long-term flexibility in decentralized applications.
Context ∞ The discussion around proxy patterns is significant for the ongoing maintenance and evolution of decentralized applications on platforms like Ethereum. News reports often detail upgrades to major dApps facilitated by these patterns. A key debate involves the security implications of upgradable contracts, as malicious changes could potentially compromise user funds.