Nonce
Quick Answer
A nonce is a sequential number assigned to each transaction from a wallet, ensuring ordered processing and preventing replay attacks in payment systems.
Full Definition
In blockchain, a nonce is a sequential number assigned to each transaction sent from a wallet address. It ensures transactions are processed in order and prevents replay attacks. If a transaction with nonce 5 is pending, nonce 6 cannot confirm until nonce 5 processes. Payment systems manage nonces carefully to avoid stuck transactions and ensure reliable sequential processing of merchant settlements.
Related Terms
Network Fee
A network fee is the cost charged by a blockchain to process a transaction, varying greatly by chain — from dollars on Ethereum mainnet to fractions of a cent on Layer 2.
Node
A node is a computer participating in a blockchain network by validating transactions and maintaining a copy of the ledger. Payment providers run nodes for low-latency transaction processing.