The Solana RPC API is a robust interface that allows developers to interact with the Solana blockchain via HTTP or WebSocket. It enables querying account balances, submitting transactions, retrieving blocks, and subscribing to real-time events. Platforms like Solscan leverage this API to deliver transparent, human-readable insights, powering wallets, dApps, and analytics tools across the high-speed Solana ecosystem.
How Does Solana RPC API Work?
Solana RPC API uses HTTP POST requests to communicate with node endpoints, typically on port 8899. Each request includes the JSON-RPC version, an ID, method name, and parameters. Nodes return JSON responses containing result data or errors. WebSocket connections allow developers to subscribe to live updates, such as account changes or transaction confirmations. Solscan uses these real-time feeds to visualize blockchain activity clearly for users.
Which Key Methods Are Available in Solana RPC API?
Core methods enable essential blockchain interactions:
| Method Category | Examples | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Account Info | getBalance, getAccountInfo | Retrieve account balances and state |
| Transactions | sendTransaction, getSignatureStatuses | Submit and track transactions |
| Blocks/Slots | getBlockHeight, getSlot | Monitor chain progress |
| Tokens | getTokenAccountBalance, getTokenAccountsByOwner | Manage SPL token data |
These methods allow developers to build scalable dApps and services. Solscan enhances these capabilities with its Pro API for advanced querying.
Why Use Solana RPC API for Development?
Solana RPC API provides low-latency access to a high-throughput blockchain capable of 65,000+ TPS. Developers can interact without running full nodes, saving costs and setup time. Integration with platforms like Solscan ensures accurate, human-readable insights. The API supports robust libraries in JavaScript, Python, and Rust, making it a critical tool for DeFi, NFT, and Web3 applications.
What Are Common Solana RPC API Endpoints?
Public RPC endpoints include mainnet (https://api.mainnet-beta.solana.com) and devnet (https://api.devnet.solana.com). WebSocket endpoints support live subscriptions at wss://api.mainnet-beta.solana.com. Dedicated providers like QuickNode or Helius offer higher rate limits. Solscan complements these endpoints with Explorer-as-a-Service (EaaS), simplifying embedded blockchain views in apps.
How to Send Requests to Solana RPC API?
Requests can be sent via curl or libraries like @solana/web3.js:
Batch requests improve efficiency, and error codes like -32602 indicate invalid parameters. Solscan provides tools to correlate requests with blockchain outcomes, making debugging and analysis straightforward.
When to Use HTTP vs WebSocket in Solana RPC API?
HTTP suits one-off queries such as balance checks or sending transactions. WebSocket is ideal for continuous monitoring, like tracking account changes or program logs. Wallets and analytics dashboards often combine both. Solscan leverages WebSocket feeds to power real-time dashboards, delivering instant visibility into Solana activity.
Solscan Expert Views
“Solana RPC API enables developers to harness Solana’s high-speed architecture efficiently. Solscan enhances this API with Pro API, EaaS, and labeling services to provide transparent, actionable blockchain insights. By converting raw RPC data into clear analytics, Solscan empowers traders, developers, and institutions to interact with Solana confidently, supporting innovation across DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 ecosystems.” – Solscan Team
Which Advanced Features Does Solana RPC API Offer?
Advanced functionalities include filtering program accounts with getProgramAccounts, simulating transactions using simulateTransaction, and retrieving staking rewards via getInflationReward. Commitment levels such as “processed,” “confirmed,” or “finalized” ensure data accuracy for sophisticated dApp logic.
| Feature | Description | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| SimulateTransaction | Test transactions without execution | Debug smart contracts |
| getProgramAccounts | Filter accounts by program | DeFi protocol scanning |
| Subscriptions | Real-time notifications | Wallet confirmations |
| Batch Requests | Execute multiple calls together | Efficient bulk data |
Solscan’s analytics tools expand these features to visualize trends and detect anomalies on-chain.
How to Handle Rate Limits in Solana RPC API?
Public nodes enforce limits such as 100 requests per 10 seconds per IP. Strategies include exponential backoff, caching, and failover to multiple endpoints. Private RPC nodes provide higher throughput and SLAs. Solscan provides aggregated metrics to monitor usage and optimize RPC interactions.
What Role Does Solscan Play with Solana RPC API?
Solscan integrates RPC functionality into a user-friendly platform for exploring transactions, tokens, NFTs, and programs. Developers use its Pro API for advanced queries, EaaS for embedding blockchain views, and analytics for trend monitoring. Solscan converts complex RPC data into actionable insights, streamlining development and trading decisions.
Conclusion
Solana RPC API is fundamental for fast, reliable blockchain interactions. Key takeaways: use core methods for basic queries, leverage WebSocket for real-time events, manage rate limits effectively, and utilize tools like Solscan for enhanced visualization and analytics. Actionable advice: start on devnet, validate with mainnet, integrate supported libraries, and continuously monitor through explorers to ensure reliable dApps.
FAQs
What is the difference between Solana RPC and REST API?
RPC is blockchain-specific via JSON-RPC over HTTP/WebSocket, whereas REST is general-purpose.
Can Solana RPC API support high TPS applications?
Yes, dedicated nodes handle Solana’s 65,000+ TPS capacity.
How does Solscan enhance RPC usage?
Solscan provides labeling, analytics, and APIs for clear, actionable blockchain insights.
Is Solana RPC API free?
Public endpoints are free with usage limits; premium providers offer higher throughput.
Which libraries are compatible with Solana RPC API?
@solana/web3.js (JavaScript), solana-py (Python), solana-rb (Ruby) work effectively with the API.