All terms
The point at which a transaction can no longer be reversed.
Some chains offer probabilistic finality, where reversal becomes exponentially unlikely as blocks accumulate. Others offer deterministic finality, where a finalized block is mathematically settled.
This matters for anyone accepting payments. Probabilistic finality means waiting. Deterministic finality means you can act immediately.
Ethereum finalizes about every 13 minutes. Algorand finalizes in under 3 seconds with no reorganization possible.
That confirmations and finality are the same thing. On proof of work, finality is probabilistic and gets stronger with every block. On several proof of stake chains it is explicit and absolute after a set point. Knowing which one you are on tells you how long to wait.
Common questions
Is a confirmed transaction final?
Why do some chains claim instant finality?
Where this comes up on the site
The guides that actually use this word, rather than a list of everything we have written.
Where to go next
More technology terms
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