Transaction Latency

Definition ∞ Transaction latency denotes the time delay between the initiation of a transaction and its final confirmation or settlement on a network. In blockchain systems, this encompasses the period required for a transaction to be broadcast, validated by nodes, and included in a block. High transaction latency can impede the usability of applications requiring rapid interactions, such as decentralized exchanges or payment systems. Minimizing latency is a key objective for improving network performance and user experience.
Context ∞ Transaction latency is a critical performance metric frequently discussed in relation to blockchain scalability and user experience. Efforts to reduce latency are central to the development of faster and more efficient networks, with layer-2 solutions and alternative consensus mechanisms being primary areas of focus. The ongoing debate centers on achieving low latency without compromising the security and decentralization principles of blockchain technology.