#Treehouse $TREE Tree-based cryptography is a method in computer security that uses tree data structures to enhance cryptographic processes. One common example is the Merkle tree, where each leaf node holds a data block and every non-leaf node is a hash of its child nodes. This structure allows efficient and secure verification of data integrity, especially in distributed systems like blockchain. Merkle trees reduce the need for full data transmission, improving performance and scalability. Tree-based cryptographic schemes are also used in digital signatures, such as in Merkle Signature Schemes (MSS), which are post-quantum secure. Overall, tree crypto ensures secure, efficient data handling.