What type of membership does Hyperledger Fabric utilize to provide a secure network?

Hyperledger Fabric utilizes permissioned membership to provide a secure network. This means that all participants in the network are known and must be granted permission to join. This structure enhances security and privacy because it ensures that only authorized entities can access the network and its data.

In a permissioned network, participants are identified by their credentials, and the network enforces access controls and governance policies that dictate who can perform specific actions, such as submitting transactions or accessing data. This model is particularly useful in enterprise applications where trust is critical and all network participants must adhere to certain rules and regulations.

The other types of membership mentioned do not provide the same level of security and control. For instance, anonymous membership does not guarantee that all participants are known, which can lead to potential risks. Open membership allows anyone to join without credentials or prior verification, compromising the network's integrity. Decentralized membership does not specifically address the need for permission and could imply a lack of rigorous governance. Thus, permissioned membership is essential for ensuring that only verified users can partake in the network's operations, which is a fundamental characteristic of Hyperledger Fabric.