Frequently asked questions about the BNB Smart Chain API
What is BNB Smart Chain (BSC)?
The BNB Smart Chain (BSC) is a high-performance blockchain developed by Binance, designed to offer developers low transaction costs and fast execution times. It is Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatible which enables developers to deploy Ethereum-based applications seamlessly on it!
What is the BNB Smart Chain API?
The BNB Smart Chain API facilitates interaction with the BSC network through a collection of JSON-RPC methods. Given its compatibility with the Ethereum ecosystem, developers familiar with Ethereum's JSON-RPC APIs will find working with BSC both intuitive and straightforward.
Can I use BNB Smart Chain on free tier?
No, BSC is only available on paid tiers (growth, scale, enterprise). If you're on free tier upgrade your account to use BSC. If you want Alchemy to support BSC on free tier, please request here.
How can I get started using the BSC API?
Explained in BNB Smart Chain Quickstart.
Is BSC EVM compatible?
Yes, BNB Smart Chain is fully compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). This compatibility allows Ethereum developers to port their projects to BSC with minimal changes, taking advantage of the chain's high throughput and low transaction fees.
What API does BSC use?
BNB Smart Chain uses the JSON-RPC API standard for blockchain interactions. This is the same standard used by Ethereum.
What is a BSC API key?
When accessing the BSC network via a node provider like Alchemy, BSC developers use an API key to send transactions and retrieve data from the network.
For the best development experience, we recommend that you sign up for a free API key!
Which libraries support BSC?
Given BSC's EVM compatibility, popular Ethereum libraries like ethers.js and web3.js are fully compatible with BSC. This allows for seamless development and integration for those familiar with Ethereum's development ecosystem.
What programming languages work with BSC?
Similar to Ethereum, BSC supports a range of programming languages for blockchain interaction and smart contract development, including Solidity for smart contracts, as well as JavaScript and TypeScript for dApp development and off-chain interactions.
What does BSC use for gas?
BSC uses BNB, the native cryptocurrency of the Binance ecosystem, for transaction fees, gas, and other network activities.
What methods does Alchemy support for the BSC API?
You can find the list of all the methods Alchemy support for the BSC API on BSC API Endpoints page.
My question isn't here, where can I get help?
Don't worry, we got you. Check out our discord and feel free to post any questions you have!