EVM Parallel Execution

Definition ∞ EVM parallel execution refers to the ability of the Ethereum Virtual Machine to process multiple transactions simultaneously rather than one after another. Traditionally, the EVM processes transactions sequentially, which limits throughput and contributes to network congestion and high gas fees. Parallel execution aims to identify and process independent transactions concurrently, significantly increasing the number of operations a blockchain can handle per second. This technical advancement is a key strategy for improving the scalability of Ethereum-compatible networks.
Context ∞ EVM parallel execution is a critical area of research and development for Ethereum and other EVM-compatible blockchains, frequently appearing in discussions about future network upgrades and scalability solutions. Achieving true parallel execution presents significant engineering challenges related to state management and transaction ordering. Success in this domain could dramatically alter the performance and cost structure of decentralized applications, impacting user experience and developer activity.