Frequently asked questions about the Flow API
What is Flow?
Flow is a blockchain designed for the next generation of apps, games, and digital assets. Built to support high-performance applications, Flow offers scalability, speed, and a developer-friendly environment, making it ideal for creating decentralized applications (dApps) and digital ecosystems.
What is the Flow API?
The Flow API facilitates interaction with the Flow network through a collection of JSON-RPC methods. It provides developers with tools to interact with the blockchain, enabling functionalities such as transactions, smart contract deployment, and data retrieval.
How can I get started using the Flow API?
Explained in Flow API Quickstart.
Is Flow EVM compatible?
Flow is not EVM-compatible. Instead, it uses a unique architecture designed to optimize scalability and performance, along with its own programming language, Cadence, for smart contracts.
What API does Flow use?
Flow uses the JSON-RPC API standard for blockchain interactions, similar to many other blockchains, but tailored to its unique architecture and requirements.
What is a Flow API key?
When accessing the Flow network via a node provider like Alchemy, 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 Flow?
Flow has its own set of libraries and tools designed specifically for its ecosystem. However, it also supports integrations with popular libraries like fcl-js (Flow Client Library) which facilitates interaction with the Flow blockchain.
What programming languages work with Flow?
Flow uses Cadence, a resource-oriented programming language, for smart contracts. For off-chain interactions and dApp development, developers typically use JavaScript, TypeScript, or other web development languages.
What does Flow use for gas?
Flow uses its native cryptocurrency, FLOW, for transaction fees, gas, and other network activities.
What methods does Alchemy support for the Flow API?
You can find the list of all the methods Alchemy supports for the Flow API on Flow 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!