Ethereum: A closer look at the confirmation levels
As an enthusiastic cryptocurrency, it is probably familiar with the concept of confirmation levels in blockchain networks such as Ethereum. In this article we will deepen how these levels work and what they mean for their transactions.
What is confirmation?
In a blockchain network, every transaction is referred to by a process that is referred to as “consensus”. This review ensures that all nodes in the network agree to the validity of the transaction and its content. The confirmation level represents the number of times in which a transaction must be transferred to the network before it is considered “confirmed”.
What does the confirmation level mean?
A higher level of confirmation means that more confirmation is required to add a transaction to the block chain. In Ethereum, the transactions generally begin with a single confirmation level (SFL) that can vary from 1 to 10. The following stages show additional confirmations:
* 0 SFL : New block: This is the most basic confirmation. A new block must contain at least one UN -confirmed transaction before it is considered part of the block chain.
* 1 SFL : Confirmation of the first block: In Ethereum, a new block generally requires two confirmations that must be considered valid. This means that both nodes in the network agree to the validity of the first block before it is added to the chain.
* 2 SFL : Confirmation of the second block: As soon as a second block is added to the network (a total of six blocks), each subsequent block must have at least three confirmations to be regarded as part of the block chain.
* 3-5 SFLS
: Additional block confirmations: With five or more blocks, each additional block requires at least one further confirmation level. This means that a single transaction may require up to 10 confirmations before they are added to the block chain.
What does it mean if transactions have low confirmations?
If you see a transaction with only two confirmations (99 and 95), this is likely:
- The sender or recipient still checks his identity that takes time.
- There may be problems with network connectivity or block circumcision (a process in which the oldest blocks are discarded to accelerate the chain).
- The transaction has not yet reached the level of confirmation of the second block.
When is the transaction successful?
To send a successful transaction, you must make sure that you meet all requirements:
- SFL : Confirm at least one transaction that has not been confirmed.
- Confirmation of the first block (2 SFL) : Make sure that both nodes in the network match the validity of the first block.
- Confirmation of the second block (5-10 SFLS) : At this point, each subsequent block must have three or more confirmations.
If you have problems with low confirmations and still expect your transaction, this is essential:
- Check your identity and check whether the network works correctly.
- Make sure that all parties involved use the right wallet or private key.
- Be patient and give the network time to process the transaction.
Remember that confirmation levels are not a guarantee of success. In Ethereum there can be several reasons why transactions can take longer than spread throughout the network. However, understanding the functioning of the confirmation levels will be better equipped to solve a problem that occurs during its transactions.
Leave a Reply