Backlog refers to the accumulation of unprocessed transactions waiting to be confirmed on a blockchain. When the demand for transactions exceeds the network’s processing capacity, a queue builds up, leading to delays in confirmation times.

This situation often occurs during peak trading periods or when there is high activity on a particular platform. Users may experience longer waiting times and increased transaction fees, as miners prioritize transactions with higher fees.

In decentralized networks, the backlog can impact overall user experience. It underscores the limitations of scalability in some blockchains, prompting discussions about solutions like layer 2 networks, transaction batching, or protocol upgrades to improve efficiency and speed.

Monitoring backlog levels can provide insights into network health and help users decide the optimal time for executing transactions to minimize fees and delay.