Block Finality Decoupling

Definition ∞ Block finality decoupling separates the immediate confirmation of a transaction from its irreversible settlement on a blockchain. This architectural approach permits faster transaction processing on a preliminary layer while a distinct, more robust layer handles ultimate immutability. It addresses the scalability challenges inherent in many distributed ledger technologies by segmenting the confirmation process.
Context ∞ This concept is central to advancements in blockchain scalability solutions, particularly in the context of layer-2 protocols and sharding. News often discusses how various networks implement block finality decoupling to boost transaction throughput and user experience without compromising security. The ongoing debate concerns balancing rapid preliminary confirmations with strong eventual consistency.