Synchronous Model

Definition ∞ In distributed computing, a synchronous model assumes that all network participants operate with synchronized clocks and that messages are delivered within a known, fixed time bound. This model simplifies the design of consensus protocols as it removes uncertainties related to message delays and processing speeds. It provides a strong theoretical foundation for analyzing system behavior.
Context ∞ While many real-world blockchain networks operate under asynchronous or partially synchronous models, the synchronous model is often used in academic research to analyze the theoretical security and liveness properties of consensus algorithms. News might reference this model when discussing the foundational security assumptions of certain blockchain designs or comparing the theoretical guarantees of different protocols. Understanding this model helps to contextualize the challenges of building robust decentralized systems.