Rollup Sequencing
Rollup sequencing is the process of ordering and batching transactions within a Layer 2 rollup before submitting them to the base settlement layer. The sequencer is responsible for receiving user transactions, arranging them in a specific sequence, and generating a compressed batch that is posted to the main chain.
This role is crucial for maintaining the ordering guarantees and finality of the rollup. In centralized rollups, a single operator handles sequencing, which provides low latency but introduces potential censorship risks.
Decentralized sequencing models are emerging to distribute this responsibility among multiple nodes to ensure censorship resistance and fair transaction ordering. Effective sequencing is vital for preventing front-running and ensuring that the rollup state remains consistent and verifiable.
It acts as the bridge between user-level transaction submission and the finality provided by the underlying consensus layer.