Definition ∞ A high velocity chain is a blockchain network engineered for rapid transaction processing and exceptional throughput. These chains prioritize speed and scalability to support applications that demand quick confirmations and handle extensive transaction volumes. They achieve this through various architectural optimizations, including advanced consensus mechanisms or layer-2 scaling solutions. Such designs are essential for mainstream adoption.
Context ∞ High velocity chains directly address the scalability limitations inherent in earlier blockchain architectures, rendering them suitable for applications such as microtransactions, gaming, and other demanding decentralized services. The competition among various layer-1 and layer-2 solutions frequently centers on achieving superior transaction speeds and reduced costs without compromising network security. This ongoing development is critical for expanding blockchain utility.