Here's an overview of how the Dolev-Strong algorithm works:
The algorithm assumes a network of n nodes, where at most f nodes can be faulty or Byzantine, and n >= 3f + 1. This means that the system can tolerate up to one-third of faulty nodes.
Each node starts with an initial value, which can be either 0 or 1. In the context of the Dolev-Strong algorithm, these values represent the proposals made by nodes.
Nodes communicate with each other by sending messages containing their initial values, along with a digital signature to ensure authenticity.
Upon receiving a message, a node verifies the message's digital signature. If the signature is valid, the node forwards the message to all other nodes in the network, except for the sender. If the node has already received the same message, it discards it to prevent redundant communication.
Nodes keep track of the messages they receive in a set. The algorithm proceeds in a series of communication rounds, where each round corresponds to the nodes exchanging messages with each other.
In each round, nodes receive messages and add them to their sets. After a specific number of rounds, determined by the parameter f, the nodes decide on a final value based on the messages in their sets.
The final decision is made using a deterministic function applied to the set of messages. The function ensures that all honest nodes reach the same decision, even if they receive different sets of messages due to faulty or malicious behavior.
If the system has more than f faulty nodes, it is possible that the Dolev-Strong algorithm will not converge to a consensus. In this case, the system would require additional measures to achieve agreement.
In summary, the Dolev-Strong algorithm provides a way for nodes in a distributed system to reach consensus in the presence of faulty or malicious nodes. The algorithm relies on authenticated communication, multiple rounds of message exchange, and a deterministic decision function to ensure that all honest nodes reach the same agreement.