Consensus Algorithms
Consensus algorithms are protocols or mechanisms used in distributed computing systems to achieve agreement on a single data value or state among multiple nodes, ensuring reliability and fault tolerance. They are fundamental to distributed systems, enabling coordination and consistency in environments where nodes may fail or act maliciously. Common applications include blockchain networks, distributed databases, and cluster management systems.
Developers should learn consensus algorithms when building or working with distributed systems that require high availability, fault tolerance, and data consistency, such as in blockchain platforms, cloud computing, or microservices architectures. They are essential for scenarios like maintaining a shared ledger in cryptocurrencies, synchronizing replicas in databases, or electing leaders in distributed clusters to prevent conflicts and ensure system integrity.