Epoch Switch

An epoch switch refers to a periodic event in blockchain networks, particularly those using proof-of-stake (PoS) or other consensus mechanisms, where a new epoch begins. An epoch typically consists of a fixed number of blocks, and after each epoch, the network may adjust certain parameters, such as validator selection or staking rewards. In Ethereum’s original proof-of-work system, an epoch switch would occur after every 30,000 blocks, at which point a new Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) would be used for mining. PoS networks like Cardano also use epochs to distribute staking rewards and rotate validators.