Forward-only

Describing a mode of operation, communication, or access that permits activity or progress in a single direction, typically without the ability to revert, undo, or receive feedback in the reverse direction. This implies a one-way process or system. The term often applies to data transmissions, transactions, or operational procedures where information flows only in a specific direction and cannot be directly reversed or altered retrospectively. This characteristic prioritizes speed, efficiency, or security in the forward movement, but it can limit options for correction, review, or two-way interaction. The system design emphasizes progression along a predetermined path, making it suitable for scenarios where the chronological sequence or irreversible nature of actions are essential. It excludes the provision for actions moving backwards such as deletion or edit requests.

Forward-only meaning with examples

• The 'forward-only' data stream from the sensor prevented real-time debugging; each reading was processed immediately. Engineers had to use a complex logging system for capturing errors before their data became inaccessible, hindering the troubleshooting process.
• With 'forward-only' video conferencing, changes couldn't be sent as the feed was locked; the speaker's audio was delivered immediately and couldn't be rewound. This made answering questions immediately essential, forcing the presentation to be perfectly planned with no room for corrections.
• Transactions using a 'forward-only' blockchain architecture made tracing back a specific payment or data point impossible; they could only verify its existence as of a given point. Therefore, it enhanced the financial security, as once the transaction occurred, it was permanently locked into the history.
• The mission's navigation system operated in 'forward-only' mode, allowing for course corrections but not for retracing steps. The astronaut's final destination was reached without a reverse system available if an error happened during the landing procedure.
• Software updates were applied through a 'forward-only' process; rollback features were unavailable if something went wrong. While it was designed for quick deployment, it increased the risk of complete systems failure if a problem was discovered once the installation was complete.