External Function Call

Definition ∞ An external function call in smart contract programming refers to a transaction initiated by one smart contract to execute a function within another smart contract or an external account. This interaction enables contracts to communicate and operate with each other, facilitating complex decentralized applications and protocol interactions. Such calls are fundamental for building modular and interoperable blockchain systems, allowing for the reuse of code and the creation of sophisticated logic. Proper handling of these calls is critical for security and reliability.
Context ∞ The security implications of external function calls are a frequent topic in blockchain development and security news, particularly concerning reentrancy attacks and unexpected state changes. Developers continuously work on secure coding practices and formal verification methods to mitigate risks associated with cross-contract interactions. The ongoing challenge involves ensuring the predictable and safe execution of these calls within an increasingly interconnected decentralized application environment.