Sharded Consensus

Definition ∞ Sharded consensus is a mechanism that divides a blockchain network into smaller segments, or shards, each responsible for validating a portion of transactions. This approach aims to increase transaction throughput and scalability by allowing multiple shards to process data concurrently. Consensus is then reached across these shards to maintain network integrity.
Context ∞ Sharded consensus mechanisms are a critical area of innovation for scaling blockchain networks, with significant attention focused on projects implementing or refining these architectures. News often reports on the progress, challenges, and security implications of sharded consensus designs as they are deployed and tested.