Getting started with blockchain node provider

Blockchain technology has revolutionized how we store, manage and transfer data and assets. A blockchain node is a critical component of a blockchain network, as it allows for the validation and recording of transactions on the blockchain. Running your own Ethereum node can be very challenging, especially when getting started or scaling your project fast. However, several services run optimized node infrastructures for you, so you can focus on developing your application or product instead.

In this guide, we’ll be discussing the basics of getting started with a blockchain node provider. Whether you’re a developer, a business owner, or simply someone curious about blockchain technology, this guide will provide you with the foundational knowledge you need to move forward.

Prerequisites

• Basic blockchain node's knowledge
• Basic blockchain development knowledge
• Basic software development knowledge

What is a node provider?

Node provider offers developer tools and infrastructure to set up and manage the nodes connected to the blockchain, making it easy to access information on the blockchain without running your node. Also, they offer synced APIs and updated nodes.

Using blockchain providers will enable you to focus on your core business while professionals manage your blockchain infrastructure and its performance.

The following is a list of 8 popular node providers that offer access to the nodes of the most popular cryptocurrencies:

Below is the list of available node providers:

• Infura
• GetBlock
• QuickNodes
• Ankr
• Alchemy
• Moralis
• InfStones
• Kaleido

Managing your node is a very stressful experience; from the image above, you will see the benefits of using a node provider over managing a node as a developer.

The benefit of using a node provider

Node providers become critical for your development workflow if you want to deploy your blockchain application to a live chain.

• Adding nodes on demand and monitoring work is straightforward.
• Configure smart contracts to send and receive transactions using APIs such as JSON-RPC, REST, and WebSockets to request data from the blockchain.
• You will receive information and statistics in real time.
• You can connect your application to the blockchain without complicated configuration.
• Reliable connection 24/7, which means you will have Zero Downtime
• You will have direct technical support from the team.
• Cross-chain support
• Unique API endpoints
• Scale as you go

Summary

Developers face some challenges when deploying a node and learning many blockchains. We discovered a more straightforward way for developers to incorporate blockchain into their applications and maintain wallets is through a node provider.

Even if you are a rookie programmer with no prior expertise in developing blockchain-related programs, you can use APIs generated by the node provider.

For example, an account on Infura or another Blockchain-as-a-Service provider can be a valuable tool for accessing blockchain analytics via the platform’s nodes.