This article explains Pull Mode, a feature introduced in Stellar Core releases 19.4.0 and mandated in 19.7.0 that reduces redundant transaction broadcasting between validators. By having validators request transaction hashes before sending full transactions, Pull Mode decreased computational overhead and increased maximum TPS by 72% in testing.
The article discusses Stellar's approach to improving transaction throughput, focusing on Pull Mode—a protocol optimization that addresses inefficiencies in how validators share transaction information. Previously, validators would broadcast transactions to all peers redundantly, with some nodes receiving the same transaction over 30 times. Pull Mode implements an "ask before you send" model where validators exchange transaction hashes first and only transmit full transactions if the receiving node doesn't already have them. The feature was tested extensively in Stellar Supercluster before deployment and showed a 72% increase in maximum TPS by reducing CPU, memory, and bandwidth requirements. The article emphasizes the importance of community engagement with protocol upgrades and encourages validators and developers to understand these improvements and provide feedback.
