WebAssembly

Definition ∞ WebAssembly, often abbreviated as Wasm, is a binary instruction format for a stack-based virtual machine. It is designed as a portable compilation target for programming languages, enabling deployment on the web for client and server applications. Wasm allows for high-performance execution of code, making it suitable for computationally intensive tasks. In the context of blockchain, it offers a secure and efficient environment for running smart contracts and decentralized applications, potentially improving performance and enabling broader language support.
Context ∞ The integration of WebAssembly into blockchain development is a significant trend, offering an alternative to existing smart contract languages like Solidity. Discussions often revolve around its potential to improve smart contract execution speed, security, and the ability for developers to use a wider array of programming languages. News may highlight new projects or platforms adopting Wasm for their execution environments. The ongoing development and standardization of Wasm for decentralized applications are critical for its future impact on the blockchain space.