> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.stoffelmpc.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Design Rationale

> Design decisions behind Stoffel's protocol-agnostic architecture, extensibility, and future-proofing strategies.

## Protocol Agnostic Design

The virtual machine is designed to be protocol-agnostic for several reasons:

1. **Flexibility**
   * Support for different MPC protocols without architectural changes
   * Easy integration of new protocols as they are developed
   * Ability to switch protocols based on specific requirements

2. **Future-Proofing**
   * Not tied to limitations of specific protocols
   * Can adapt to advances in MPC research
   * Supports hybrid protocol approaches

## Extensibility

The architecture emphasizes extensibility through:

1. **Modular Design**
   * Clear separation of concerns
   * Plugin system for new instructions
   * Customizable optimization passes

2. **Abstract Interfaces**
   * Protocol-independent instruction definitions
   * Flexible memory model
   * Extensible register system