A Unique Node List (UNL) is a list of trusted nodes that are selected to participate in the consensus process of certain blockchain networks, such as Ripple's. The nodes in the UNL are responsible for validating transactions, maintaining the network's integrity, and ensuring security. The selection of nodes for the UNL is based on their trustworthiness, performance, and likelihood to behave honestly. By using a vetted list of nodes, the UNL approach helps balance decentralization with security and performance, making the consensus process more efficient while reducing the risk of malicious activity.
In Ripple's consensus algorithm, nodes in the UNL communicate with each other to reach agreement on the state of the ledger. Unlike traditional proof-of-work or proof-of-stake mechanisms, Ripple relies on this smaller set of trusted nodes to validate transactions, making the consensus process faster and more energy-efficient. However, this approach has led to debates about the level of decentralization in the network, as the UNL is determined by the network's governance structure, potentially limiting participation to a select group of nodes.
Get the Plena Super App, and start investing in 100,000+ cryptocurrencies starting with just $1
.webp)
In the context of Plena Wallet, although Plena itself does not rely on a Unique Node List (UNL) model, the concept could be relevant in networks like Binance Smart Chain (BSC) or Polygon, where validator nodes are responsible for maintaining the security and correctness of the blockchain. Plena users can track transaction validation processes, and having trusted validators in the ecosystem helps ensure transaction security and confirmation.
%201.svg)
