Security Invariants

Definition ∞ Security Invariants are fundamental properties or conditions that must consistently hold true within a system, irrespective of its operational state or any actions performed. These invariants are essential for preserving the system’s security and integrity, ensuring that core safety guarantees are never compromised. They serve as foundational principles for secure system design.
Context ∞ In blockchain and smart contract development, the identification and rigorous verification of Security Invariants are paramount to preventing vulnerabilities and potential exploits. Audits and formal verification methodologies meticulously test whether these invariants are maintained across all possible execution paths, thereby safeguarding digital assets and ensuring the reliable functionality of protocols from malicious actors.