Definition ∞ Low confirmation latency means that transactions on a blockchain network are verified and added to the ledger very quickly. This characteristic indicates the short time interval between submitting a transaction and its irreversible inclusion in a block, providing prompt finality. Protocols designed for low latency are crucial for applications requiring rapid settlement, such as high-frequency trading or point-of-sale transactions. Achieving minimal confirmation times enhances user experience and expands the practical utility of decentralized systems.
Context ∞ Low confirmation latency is a key performance metric for many next-generation blockchain protocols, especially those aiming to support mainstream financial applications. The competition among networks to offer faster transaction finality is a recurring theme in technical discussions and news. Future developments will likely involve continued advancements in consensus algorithms and network architecture to further reduce confirmation times.