Vector Accumulator

Definition ∞ A Vector Accumulator is a cryptographic primitive that allows for efficient, verifiable aggregation of many values into a single, compact representation. It enables proofs that a specific value is part of the aggregated set without revealing all other elements. This structure supports membership proofs and non-membership proofs in a computationally efficient manner. It is a building block for advanced cryptographic schemes.
Context ∞ In blockchain technology, Vector Accumulators are crucial for scaling solutions and privacy protocols, particularly those requiring efficient data verification and storage. News discussing advancements in zero-knowledge proofs, verifiable databases, or layer-2 scaling often relates to the underlying efficiencies provided by such cryptographic tools. Their implementation can significantly enhance the performance and privacy of decentralized systems.