Definition
A light client is a type of blockchain node that verifies block headers and essential consensus data without storing or processing the full blockchain state and transaction history. It relies on succinct cryptographic proofs or information from full nodes to validate chain integrity, enabling resource-efficient participation in the network while still independently checking core consensus information.
In Simple Terms
A light client is a lightweight version of a blockchain node. It does not keep all blockchain data, but it keeps enough verified information to check that the chain is valid. It depends on full nodes for detailed data, allowing devices with limited storage or bandwidth to connect to and verify the blockchain.
Context and Usage
The term light client is commonly used in discussions about blockchain network architecture, node types, and secure access from constrained environments such as mobile or embedded systems. It appears frequently in designs for cross-chain communication, verification of data availability, and interactions with infrastructure like oracles and bridges, where minimal yet trustworthy on-chain verification is required.