Throughput
Network Metrics, Scaling
Throughput refers to the number of transactions, operations, or data packets a blockchain network, protocol, or application can process within a specific time frameÔÇötypically measured in transactions per second (TPS). High throughput is essential for scalability, as it determines how many users and applications a network can support without congestion, delays, or high fees. Throughput is affected by block size, block time, consensus mechanism, and the implementation of scaling solutions like Layer 2 protocols and rollups.
Use Case: Ethereum’s native throughput is limited to around 15 TPS, but Layer 2 solutions like Arbitrum or Optimism increase effective throughput to thousands of TPS, enabling high-volume DeFi and gaming apps to operate smoothly.
Key Concepts:
- Layer One Protocol ÔÇö The base chain whose design sets foundational throughput limits.
- Layer Two Protocol ÔÇö Scaling networks that boost throughput by processing transactions off-chain.
- Rollups ÔÇö Bundle many transactions, dramatically increasing TPS while leveraging Layer 1 security.
- Sidechains ÔÇö Independent networks that add parallel throughput to main chains.
- Settlement Finality ÔÇö The point at which increased throughput still guarantees irreversible transaction completion.
Summary: Throughput measures a network’s capacity for handling activity at scale. High throughput is vital for global adoption of blockchain applications, reducing congestion, and lowering transaction costs as Web3 grows.
| Network | Native Throughput (TPS) | With Scaling Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Ethereum | ~15 TPS | 2,000+ TPS (Arbitrum, Optimism) |
| Bitcoin | ~7 TPS | 1,000+ TPS (Lightning Network) |
| Solana | 2,000+ TPS (native) | N/A (already high) |
| XRP Ledger | 1,500 TPS | N/A (no Layer 2 yet) |