Trapdoor Verifiable Delay Function

Definition ∞ A Trapdoor Verifiable Delay Function is a cryptographic primitive that requires a specified amount of sequential computation to produce an output, yet allows for quick verification of that output. A “trapdoor” feature means there exists a secret parameter that permits a privileged entity to compute the output much faster than anyone else. This creates a time-lock with a potential shortcut.
Context ∞ Trapdoor VDFs are theoretical constructs with potential applications in areas like leader election in proof-of-stake systems or creating verifiable randomness. The existence of a trapdoor introduces a centralized element, which is a point of debate in decentralized system design. Research continues on how to balance the utility of a faster computation path with the desire for full decentralization and trustlessness.