Authority Nodes are specialized nodes in a blockchain network that have been granted certain privileges or responsibilities. Unlike regular nodes, which may simply validate transactions, Authority Nodes often participate in the consensus process. They can be seen as trusted entities that help secure and maintain the network.These nodes are usually pre-selected or approved by the network’s governance. Their roles may include validating transactions, producing new blocks, and sometimes voting on protocol changes. This delegation of responsibility helps to enhance efficiency and speed in processing transactions.In many systems, Authority Nodes are crucial for achieving consensus without the extensive resource consumption seen in traditional Proof of Work models. They rely on alternatives like Proof of Authority or Delegated Proof of Stake, where the reputation of these nodes plays a significant role in maintaining network integrity. In summary, Authority Nodes play a key role in managing blockchain networks by ensuring rapid consensus and facilitating trust, all while reducing resource consumption.