System design interviews often test your knowledge of scalability, efficiency, and fault tolerance and these 7 key algorithms play a crucial role in designing robust distributed systems. 1. Merkle Tree – A hash-based structure that verifies data integrity and consistency in large datasets. 2. Consistent Hashing – Reduces rehashing when nodes join or leave a system, ensuring stability. 3. Read Repair – Automatically fixes missing or inconsistent data in distributed databases. 4. Gossip Protocol – A decentralized communication model that spreads data efficiently across nodes. 5. Bloom Filter – A space-efficient data structure that checks membership, allowing false positives but no false negatives. 6. Heartbeat – A periodic signal that ensures availability and detects failures in real-time. 7. CAP/PACELC Theorem – Explains trade-offs between consistency, availability, partition tolerance, and latency in distributed systems. More in graphics below. Would you like to see anything getting added here? Consider reposting if you found this helpful! Follow me at Shalini Goyal for more such insights. | 32 comments on LinkedIn