Definition ∞ Message sequencing refers to the precise order in which data packets or communications are transmitted, received, and processed within a system. Maintaining correct message sequencing is critical for ensuring data integrity, preventing race conditions, and achieving consistent system states. This is especially important in distributed computing environments where network latency can cause messages to arrive out of their intended order. Proper sequencing prevents errors.
Context ∞ In blockchain technology, message sequencing is fundamental to the integrity of transaction processing and the finality of blocks. News often discusses how different consensus mechanisms handle message ordering to prevent attacks like front-running or censorship. Efficient and verifiable message sequencing is a core aspect of network performance and security, directly impacting the reliability of digital asset transfers and smart contract execution.