Resource Utilization

Definition ∞ Resource utilization refers to the degree to which available computing assets, such as CPU, memory, storage, and network bandwidth, are actively used by a system. Efficient utilization means these resources are employed effectively, avoiding waste or bottlenecks. High utilization can indicate heavy demand, while low utilization might suggest inefficiency or over-provisioning. It is a key metric for system performance.
Context ∞ In the realm of blockchain and distributed systems, resource utilization is a critical metric for evaluating the efficiency and sustainability of a network. Proof-of-Work blockchains, for example, are often criticized for their high energy and computational resource usage. Efforts to improve scalability and reduce environmental impact often center on optimizing resource utilization through alternative consensus mechanisms or layer-2 solutions.