Topic
What is a blockchain explorer?
Last reviewed:
- Quick fact 1
Block explorers show data from a public blockchain: blocks, transactions and addresses.
Source: ethereum.org: Block explorers
- Quick fact 2
Anyone can look up public blockchain data; no wallet is needed to read it.
Source: ethereum.org: Block explorers
- Quick fact 3
Every transaction is recorded in the public block chain that all nodes share.
The short lesson
A blockchain explorer is a search engine for a public blockchain. You paste a transaction ID, an address or a block number, and it shows what the record says.
What you can check:
- Did my payment go through? See if the transaction is pending or confirmed, and how many confirmations it has.
- Which address did it go to? Compare every character with the address you meant to use.
- Which network? Each explorer covers its own blockchain. If you cannot find a transaction, you may be looking on the wrong network.
Two cautions:
- Explorers are read-only. You never need to connect a wallet or type a seed phrase to look something up. A site that asks is not a real explorer.
- Look-alike explorers exist. Bookmark the one you use.
Because the record is public, anyone who knows your address can see its history. That is why it helps to understand pseudonymity.
Related terms
Go deeper in Lesson 4: The shared list everyone can check
Common questions
Do I need an account to use an explorer?
No. Looking up public data does not need an account, a wallet or a seed phrase.
Why can’t I find my transaction?
You may be on the wrong network’s explorer, or the transaction was never broadcast.
Can an explorer reverse a payment?
No. It only shows the record.
Can people see my balance?
Anyone who knows your address can see its public history and balance.