Access to Flare nodes is crucial for developers and enterprises looking to leverage the benefits of the Flare network.
There are three main avenues available to access Flare nodes:
- The free public API provided by the Flare Foundation: this is rate-limited and only useful for basic functions.
- APIs provided by Node-as-a-Service companies: these provide higher bandwidth options and often tiered payment levels based on requirements, removing barriers to entry. The Flare API Portal falls into this category.
- Running your own node: this provides dedicated access but requires more infrastructure investment upfront.
Flare’s Free Public APIs
For those looking for a cost-effective entry point, free public APIs are available. Although they come with heavy rate-limits to protect the service, they provide access to all of Flare’s chains, explorers, and connected chains, ensuring developers and casual users can explore the capabilities of the Flare network without an upfront investment.
The Flare API Portal
Backed by the Flare Labs Team
The API Portal is managed by the Flare Labs team, ensuring a high level of expertise, reliability, and dedicated support for users. Who better to run Flare nodes than the people that made them?
Google Cloud Marketplace Integration
With its integration into the Google Cloud Marketplace, the API Portal extends a trustworthy and easy-to-navigate platform for accessing Flare nodes, right within your existing cloud environment.
Exclusive Blockchain Explorer APIs
The API Portal stands out as the only API provider offering Blockchain Explorer APIs for the Flare networks, enhancing its utility and making it a comprehensive solution for developers and enterprises alike.
Comprehensive Access to Flare’s Cross-chain Ecosystem
The API Portal is unique in providing access to all of the connected chains in Flare’s cross-chain ecosystem, making it a one-stop solution for those looking to harness the full potential of Flare and its interconnected blockchain networks.
Adherence to NCSC Security Guidelines
The API Portal follows the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) guidelines, ensuring a high level of security to protect users and maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of our live services.
Other Shared Node Providers
The API Portal isn’t the only option for people wanting to avoid setting up their own infrastructure. Flare has partnered with several Node as a Service companies to enable them to provide access to Flare’s blockchains:
Ankr
Ankr’s globally distributed node infrastructure allows you to build multi-chain tools as a foundational layer for Web3, DeFi, and the crypto economy.
NOWNodes
NowNodes is another platform offering straightforward access to Flare nodes. A shared RPC node is an affordable way to start and scale up your crypto ecosystem.
Blockdaemon
Blockdaemon is a large independent blockchain infrastructure platform connecting institutions and developers to leading networks.
Running Your Own Node
For those who prefer a hands-on approach, there are several other methods to access Flare nodes.
Run a Flare Node Using Docker from Our DockerHub
Deploying a Flare node using Docker is a streamlined process. You can find the necessary resources on our DockerHub, allowing for a smooth setup.
Follow the Instructions in the Docs
Our documentation provides a step-by-step guide on how to set up a Flare node, catering to those who prefer a detailed walkthrough.
Install a Node Directly from the Code Repository on GitHub
For the technically adept, installing a node directly from our code repository on GitHub provides the most direct access to Flare nodes.