What is Gossip Protocols?

Also known as epidemic protocols, gossip protocols are peer-to-peer (P2P) communication frameworks that efficiently and reliably share information. While there are numerous variations, gossip protocols tend to be scalable, fault-tolerant, and secure — while being able to function on decentralized networks. Originally used to maintain consistent copies of a database stored in different locations, gossip protocols are also used for internet routing protocols, Internet Relay Chat (IRC), and various blockchain networks. On blockchains, gossip protocols allow nodes to randomly sync with each other to exchange data in a more secure manner.