Scalable Verifiable Computation

Definition ∞ Scalable verifiable computation refers to methods that enable the efficient and verifiable execution of complex computations, even when dealing with large datasets or numerous operations. These systems produce cryptographic proofs that confirm the correctness of the computation without requiring its re-execution. It is a core requirement for high-throughput, secure decentralized applications.
Context ∞ The pursuit of scalable verifiable computation is a central research goal in cryptography and blockchain, directly impacting the potential for advanced decentralized applications. News often highlights breakthroughs in zero-knowledge proofs and related technologies that promise significant improvements in verification speed and proof size. The ability to perform extensive computations off-chain while maintaining on-chain verification is a critical development for the future of decentralized systems.