Proof-of-Authority (PoA)

Proof of Authority is a consensus algorithm that provides a small and designated number of blockchain actors the power authority to validate transactions or interactions with the network and to update is distributed registry.

The Proof of Authority model enables companies to maintain their privacy while availing the benefits of blockchain technology, producing practical and efficient solution for blockchain networks. 

Ethereum co-founder and former CTO Gavin Wood in 2017 coined the term.