# Nakamoto Upgrade

## What is the (STX) Nakamoto Upgrade

The **Nakamoto Upgrade** is a significant enhancement to the [Stacks (STX) blockchain](https://www.stacks.co/), to improve its performance, security, and integration with Bitcoin. The Nakamoto Upgrade was activated at Bitcoin block **#867,867**, which occurred on **October 28, 2024.** Here are 2 of the most important takeaways from the upgrade:

* **Increased Transaction (Fast Blocks!)**: By decoupling Stacks block production from Bitcoin's block times, the Nakamoto Upgrade enables faster transaction processing, allowing Stacks blocks to be produced approximately every five seconds.&#x20;

  [Stacks Docs](https://docs.stacks.co/nakamoto-upgrade/what-is-the-nakamoto-release)
* **Bitcoin Finality (Security)**: Transactions on the Stacks blockchain achieve finality with the same security assurances as Bitcoin transactions. This means once a transaction is confirmed, it is as secure as a Bitcoin transaction, enhancing trust and reliability.&#x20;
