> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.landslide.network/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.landslide.network/overview/what-is-cometbft.md). # What is CometBFT? Some background on Tendermint ## CometBFT Explained CometBFT consensus is a Byzantine fault-tolerant consensus algorithm used in distributed systems, particularly in blockchain networks. It is used in various blockchain projects, including Cosmos, Binance Chain, and Injective. In CometBFT consensus, formerly called Tendermint, nodes in the network reach an agreement on the order and content of transactions in the blockchain. The consensus algorithm ensures that all nodes agree on the current state of the blockchain, and that new transactions are added in a consistent and secure manner. CometBFT consensus works by using a round-based voting process. Each round has a leader node that proposes a block of transactions to the network. The other nodes in the network then vote on whether to accept the proposed block. If enough nodes vote to accept the block, it is added to the blockchain. CometBFT consensus uses a deterministic finality mechanism, which means that once a block is added to the blockchain, it is considered final and cannot be changed. This makes CometBFT consensus highly secure, as it resists attacks that try to modify or manipulate the blockchain. However, the deterministic nature of CometBFT consensus can also make it slower than other consensus algorithms, as it requires every node in the network to confirm each transaction before it can be added to the blockchain. This can lead to longer confirmation times and slower transaction throughput than probabilistic consensus algorithms like Avalanche consensus. CometBFT consensus is a widely used consensus algorithm in blockchain networks that prioritizes security and determinism. However, its deterministic finality mechanism can make it slower than other consensus algorithms in certain circumstances. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters: ``` GET https://docs.landslide.network/overview/what-is-cometbft.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.