Record Model

Definition ∞ A record model in blockchain refers to the fundamental structure used to represent and store transactional data within the ledger. This defines how individual entries are organized, linked, and updated over time. Examples include the Unspent Transaction Output model used by Bitcoin or the account-based model employed by Ethereum. The chosen record model impacts transaction processing, privacy, and smart contract capabilities.
Context ∞ The choice of record model is a foundational architectural decision for blockchain protocols and is often discussed in technical analyses and news comparing different networks. Debates frequently contrast the UTXO model’s transaction privacy and parallel processing benefits with the account model’s simplicity for smart contract development. Understanding these differences is key to appreciating the design philosophies of various digital assets.