Thats not just an improvementits a transformation. Solana goes from a fast blockchain to something closer to real-time internet infrastructure. The difference is instantly noticeable: no more spinning wheels, failed NFT buys, or laggy on-chain games. With Alpenglow, Web3 starts to feel like Web2.
From Blockchain Speed to Real-Time Performance
Before Alpenglow, Solana used a system called Proof of History to sequence transactions. While innovative, it left room for latencyusers had to wait up to 12 seconds to be sure their transaction was final. That delay could create issues for anything requiring real-time interaction, from games to high-frequency trading.
Alpenglow replaces that system with a faster, more seamless method for reaching consensus. Its not an add-on or external solution; its baked into the chain. This upgrade shrinks finality down to just 150 millisecondsfaster than the blink of an eye.
1/ Introducing the largest Solana Protocol change ever: Alpenglow, Solanas new consensus protocol conceived by the Anza Research team. Say goodbye to Tower BFT and Proof of History. Say hello to Votor & Rotor >�=G pic.twitter.com/KPNQxQ1jBg
Anza (@anza_xyz) May 19, 2025
To put that in context, even leading Web2 services like Visa or PayPal settle transactions in roughly 12 seconds. With Alpenglow, Solana is now competitive with those speedswhile remaining fully decentralized.
What This Unlocks for Users and Developers
Alpenglow opens the door for truly interactive and reliable decentralized apps. Picture bidding in a live auction without lag. Or playing an on-chain game that doesnt freeze mid-turn. Or buying an NFT without praying the transaction fails. These are no longer hopestheyre expectations.
It also positions Solana as the only Layer 1 blockchain ready for high-frequency, real-world apps. In a time when many chains rely on Layer 2s to scale, Solanas core protocol just leveled upwithout sacrificing decentralization or security.
4/ Check out the blog and whitepaper by @TheWattenhofer, @DiscoKobi and @qkniep: https://t.co/LkKgfKm6K4
Anza (@anza_xyz) May 19, 2025
Take on-chain gaming, for example. In 2025, the sector has surged, with platforms like Aurory and Star Atlas pushing boundaries. These games demand real-time responsiveness. With Alpenglow, Solana can meet that demand nativelyno extra layers required.
Disclaimer
The information discussed by Altcoin Buzz is not financial advice. This is for educational, entertainment, and informational purposes only. Any information or strategies are thoughts and opinions relevant to the accepted risk tolerance levels of the writer/reviewers, and their risk tolerance may differ from yours. We are not responsible for any losses you may incur due to any investments directly or indirectly related to the information provided. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are high-risk investments, so please do your due diligence. Copyright Altcoin Buzz Pte Ltd.
