Blockchain technology, which gained widespread attention with the introduction of Bitcoin in 2009, has evolved significantly over the past decade.
Cardano (ADA) shifted the perception of secure, sustainable, and consistently innovating blockchain coexisting with smart-contract functionality. Meanwhile, the Cardano node is the piece of the puzzle that enables leveraging these features in a revolutionary way.
Bitcoin nodes, however, cannot be ignored when talking about a secure, resilient, and time-tested environment for developers.
Let’s now uncover how infrastructure is maintained in cryptocurrency networks such as Cardano and Bitcoin and how to start actually using it for your dApp development.
Nodes in Crypto: Introduction
A computer equipped with specialized software functions as a blockchain node. This software enables them to communicate with other network participants, authenticate transactions, and contribute to the agreement process within the network.
Within networks like Ethereum or Cardano, they are mainly responsible for verifying the correctness of transactions on the blockchain, registering new records, storing this information, and displaying it on demand.
Additionally, the ADA chain is also designed to host decentralized apps (dApps), which means they depend on Cardano nodes that execute these contracts and record the updates on the chain.
Here’s a representation of Cardano nodes contributing to ADA transaction’s “lifecycle:”
Proof-of-Work networks like Bitcoin heavily rely on mining nodes for the validation and creation of new blocks. While they are crucial for the functioning of the network, developers are primarily interested in nodes as a means of accessing and interacting with the blockchain.
How to access crypto nodes?
At a specific stage in the development of any dApp, the importance of nodes becomes evident. Nodes act as gateways to the network and form an essential, unchanging element of the connection and communication between the app and the blockchain.
To access the infrastructure offered by Bitcoin, Cardano, or any other network and enjoy the full functionality, developers have two options. They can either need to spin up one node for each network they wish to interact with or use services built to streamline the process.
GetBlock is one such service provider exposing APIs to Bitcoin nodes. Moreover, the platform supports an additional 50 blockchains, highlighting its broad reach and flexibility.
Connecting to Cardano
Until recently, the development pace of this chain was perceived as too slow. However, as significant milestones are reached, the network is increasingly valued, especially for its faster processing and cost-efficient features, surpassing rivals in these aspects.
With GetBlock, connecting to any network is as easy as signing up to the platform and obtaining API endpoints for a selected network.
Registered users get immediate access to a shared Cardano node. This option is ideal for those keen on testing out the service without the need to bear the infrastructure costs alone. Additionally, a free-of-charge option is available, providing users with 40,000 free daily requests.
Alternatively, you might want to consider dedicated servers. These servers offer unlimited requests, customizable configurations, and unmatched stability. They’re perfect for ensuring that dApps run seamlessly and can promptly address user queries.
Bitcoin Nodes
Despite the emergence of new blockchains, Bitcoin remains the top choice for developers. Its widespread adoption and status of the most secure and widely decentralized solution network instilling confidence in users and builders alike.
Among GetBlock users, dedicated Bitcoin nodes are a choice to make when considering building on this network. This type of service gives clients direct access to the chain giving max capacity and flawless connection for their Web3 application.
If you’re willing to test the waters before launching a full-fledged BTC dApp, testnet network is also included in the service, enabling to experiment with features and functionality prior to committing to the mainnet.
Bottom Line
As blockchain technology advances, so too do the tools and services designed to simplify and enhance development on these platforms. For individuals seeking Bitcoin or Cardano node providers, GetBlock is a viable option to consider.
By leveraging GetBlock’s services, Web3 developers can concentrate on creating the most optimal versions of their products, knowing that a team of professionals is handling the maintenance and upkeep of the underlying infrastructure. This allows developers to streamline their workflow and focus on the core aspects of their projects, ultimately leading to more efficient and effective development processes.
