4 min read · Updated 2026-10-25
How transactions get confirmed
A Bitcoin transaction waits in the mempool until a miner includes it in a block. Each new block built on top adds one confirmation, and more confirmations make reversal less likely.
The mempool
Broadcast transactions sit in a waiting area on every node. Miners usually pick those that pay the highest fee per unit of block space.
Confirmations
One confirmation means the transaction is in a block. Each block added afterwards is another. Six confirmations, about an hour, is a common standard for large amounts.
Why fees matter
A low-fee transaction may wait a long time when the network is busy. A higher fee raises its priority.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a confirmation take?
About ten minutes on average, but it varies.
Can a confirmed transaction be reversed?
Not in practice once it has several confirmations.
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