Validation Semantics

Definition ∞ Validation semantics refers to the precise rules and logical conditions that govern how transactions and blocks are verified and accepted into a blockchain ledger. These rules ensure the integrity, consistency, and security of the distributed network. They dictate what constitutes a valid state transition within the protocol. This is fundamental to network operation.
Context ∞ Changes or updates to validation semantics are critical events in blockchain development, often requiring network upgrades or hard forks to implement. Understanding these semantics is essential for developers, auditors, and regulators to assess the security and functionality of a blockchain protocol, particularly in the context of network stability and consensus integrity.