Transaction

Definition ∞ A transaction is a record of the movement of digital assets or the execution of a smart contract on a blockchain. Each transaction is cryptographically signed and broadcast to the network for verification and inclusion in a block. These records are immutable and form the basis of the distributed ledger, providing a transparent and auditable history of all activity. Transactions are the fundamental units of interaction within blockchain networks, enabling the transfer of value and the execution of programmable logic.
Context ∞ News regarding transactions often focuses on their volume, speed, and associated fees (gas costs) on different blockchain networks. Discussions frequently address the challenges of transaction throughput and the impact of network congestion on user experience and operational costs. Ongoing developments aim to enhance transaction processing capabilities through Layer 2 solutions and protocol upgrades. Analyzing transaction data provides key indicators of network activity, adoption rates, and the economic health of various blockchain ecosystems.