Definition ∞ Command ordering refers to the specific sequence in which instructions or operations are processed within a system. This sequential execution determines the final state of data and the outcome of computational tasks. Proper command ordering is vital for maintaining data consistency and predictable system behavior, especially in distributed environments.
Context ∞ In blockchain and digital asset systems, command ordering is a critical aspect of transaction processing and consensus mechanisms. The precise order of transactions within a block, or across different nodes, directly impacts the final ledger state and can influence issues like front-running in decentralized exchanges. News reports frequently address how various protocols handle this sequencing to ensure fairness and prevent manipulation.