Definition
In a blockchain and smart contract context, a simulation is a controlled, non-production execution of transactions, contract calls, or protocol behaviors using modeled or isolated state. It is a system-level component or feature that reproduces expected on-chain conditions without committing changes to a live network, enabling observation of outcomes, state transitions, and interactions under predefined parameters.
In Simple Terms
Simulation is a way to run blockchain or smart contract activity in a safe, controlled environment where nothing is actually recorded on the real chain. It imitates how the system would behave so outcomes and interactions can be seen and checked before anything happens on a live network.
Context and Usage
The term appears in discussions of smart contract development, protocol design, and risk analysis, where simulated runs help inspect contract behavior, interaction patterns, and potential failure conditions. It is commonly referenced alongside security-focused reviews, pre-deployment checks, and environment setups that mirror mainnet conditions while remaining isolated from real economic consequences.