Web3 technology is a difficult mechanism requiring knowledge of programming skills and in many cases - thorough experience. Node providers work as a gateway for web3 developers via which it is possible to launch blockchain-based products fast and easily.
What is a blockchain node provider?
Blockchain node providers offer access to node infrastructure, which is intended to communicate complex messages in order to reach a single goal, without the need to run your own node. Besides, nodes hosted by a professional development team guarantee full-time reliability, scalability, top-notch security, uptime, and consistency.
A blockchain node provider is a flexible and resource-efficient tool for web3 developers to implement custom APIs, obtain access to multiple blockchains, and help save time and money.
Setting your own node may be a tedious process for some, in particular beginners in blockchain technology. Blockchain node providers take the weight of complicated engineering and the expenses that come with it off the customer’s shoulders.
N.B. Check out this unbiased comparison between self-hosted nodes and GetBlock nodes
Top qualities of a blockchain node provider
Let’s take a look at some of the characteristics that every node provider should have.
Reliability
A good blockchain node provider maintains 24/7 reliable access to the node infrastructure. A few minutes of downtime may result in losing money and customers. It is extremely important to pay attention to node services that are able to provide full-time coverage even under the most challenging circumstances.
Scalability
Scalability is a key element of a good node provider. The more scalable a node is, the fewer resources it takes to handle massive heaps of workload. High throughput (total volume of TPS) guarantees greater user experience and faster growth for your future decentralized application.
Node types
Nodes differ in their types. Normally, there are at least three kinds of nodes: full, light, and archive. A good node provider gives access to full blockchain history (archive nodes), therefore it is a crucial factor to check when choosing a node provider.
Network availability
Access to various ecosystems is another important quality required for a top-tier node provider. Web3 developers want to look for a blockchain-as-a-service platform that supports various leading networks. The more functionality your node provider has, the better opportunities you get as a developer, e.g. you may be able to run your dApp across multiple chains and expand your business in the future.
Roadmap
Last but not least, pay attention to the roadmap of the blockchain node provider you are choosing. Roadmaps not only help determine the current state of the platform and how it expanded throughout the years but also whether the node provider has future goals similar to what you may be looking for.
