Distributed consensus is a process used in computer networks to ensure that multiple systems agree on a single value or state, even when some of the systems may fail or behave unpredictably. This is crucial in environments like blockchain technology, where maintaining a consistent and reliable record is essential for trust and security. To achieve distributed consensus, various algorithms, such as Paxos or Raft, are employed. These algorithms help coordinate the decision-making process among different nodes in the network, allowing them to reach an agreement despite potential communication delays or failures. This ensures that all participants have a consistent view of the data.