Secure Execution

Definition ∞ Secure execution refers to the process of running code or applications in an environment designed to protect them from unauthorized access, tampering, or observation. This involves employing various security measures, such as encryption, isolation, and integrity checks, to ensure that computations are performed reliably and privately. The goal is to prevent malicious actors from interfering with or extracting sensitive information during program operation. Secure execution is essential for protecting digital assets and confidential data.
Context ∞ In the context of blockchain and confidential computing, secure execution is a critical area of development, particularly for smart contracts handling sensitive data. Discussions often involve Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs) and zero-knowledge proofs as technologies enabling such secure operations. News about privacy-preserving decentralized applications or new security protocols frequently highlights the ongoing efforts to achieve robust secure execution.