Definition ∞ Schnorr signatures are a type of digital signature scheme known for their simplicity, efficiency, and ability to aggregate multiple signatures into a single, compact signature. In blockchain technology, Schnorr signatures offer advantages over ECDSA, such as improved privacy, reduced transaction size, and enhanced scalability. They allow for more efficient verification of multi-signature transactions. This cryptographic method strengthens the security and performance of digital asset protocols.
Context ∞ Schnorr signatures represent a significant upgrade for many digital asset protocols, most notably Bitcoin with the Taproot soft fork. The adoption of Schnorr signatures is driven by their cryptographic benefits, which contribute to better privacy and lower transaction costs. News frequently covers protocol upgrades incorporating Schnorr signatures, highlighting their potential to improve network efficiency and enable more complex smart contract functionalities.