Solana is set for a major upgrade that promises to revolutionize the speed and efficiency of its blockchain operations. The Alpenglow protocol, developed by Anza, aims to significantly reduce transaction confirmation times, offering a smoother user experience. By replacing existing models like Proof of History and Tower BFT, Alpenglow will enhance network processing while simplifying management complexity. 100-150 milliseconds could be the new norm for transaction completion times, marking a significant shift for real-time applications. 80% network operational capacity could lead to a single block confirmation, ensuring speed regardless of network load; in contrast, 60% density requires two rounds, contributing to both stability and efficiency.