Replicated State Machines

Definition ∞ Replicated state machines are a distributed systems concept where multiple copies of a computational process maintain identical states and execute the same sequence of operations. This method ensures fault tolerance and consistency across a network, as all replicas process inputs uniformly and arrive at the same outcome. They are fundamental to achieving strong consistency in distributed ledgers.
Context ∞ Replicated state machines constitute the architectural foundation for many blockchain and distributed ledger protocols, especially those demanding high data integrity and resilience against failures. Discussions in crypto news often reference these systems when explaining how decentralized networks uphold a consistent, shared record of transactions. Their accurate implementation is critical for the security and dependability of digital assets, ensuring all network participants concur on the canonical order of events.