Security Models

Definition ∞ Security models in blockchain technology define the theoretical and practical frameworks used to protect a decentralized network and its assets from various threats and attacks. These models encompass consensus mechanisms, cryptographic primitives, and economic incentives designed to ensure data integrity, transaction validity, and network resilience. They are fundamental to a system’s trustworthiness.
Context ∞ News frequently reports on security models when discussing the robustness of different blockchain protocols, the implications of new attack vectors, or the effectiveness of proposed upgrades. Debates around proof-of-work versus proof-of-stake often center on their respective security assumptions. Continuous evaluation and enhancement of these models are paramount for digital asset safety.