Whenever you send or receive cryptocurrency, the transaction is recorded on the blockchain.
But, it’s also possible that the transaction gets delayed and takes longer than you’re used to. When this happens, you immediately start to worry about whether the recipient has actually gotten the coins.
A blockchain explorer helps to keep you informed about the status of each transaction, so you can make informed decisions. And in this article, we’ll explain how it works.
What Is a Blockchain Explorer?
In simple terms, a blockchain explorer is an online tool that allows anyone to search and view information stored on a blockchain.
By design, every blockchain network makes transaction data visible to everyone. And when you send crypto, the transaction is immediately broadcast to the relevant network. Once it is confirmed, the transaction becomes part of the blockchain’s records. A blockchain explorer leverages this data and makes it easy for anyone to check it for themselves.
There are different explorers available, and each one allows you to check different data. However, an average explorer should allow you to check the following:
- A transaction’s status: Whether it is still pending, confirmed, or failed
- Wallet information: The wallets involved in the transaction
- Transaction information: How much crypto was sent, the date and time, and the transaction fees
Most blockchains have explorers that display their data. For instance, the Bitcoin blockchain explorer helps you to check Bitcoin transactions, and TRONScan helps you check transactions on the TRON network.
Do You Need A Blockchain Explorer?
When you send or receive money, it can get frustrating when the transaction doesn’t go through. Instead of being anxious, you’d prefer to know the status of the transaction.
A blockchain explorer helps to keep your mind at ease. You can confirm whether the transaction went through, whether it’s still pending, or if it failed entirely.
Explorers can also help you investigate transactions that have already been sent, so you can identify potential payment scams and avoid them. In the case of network congestion or delays as well, explorers will help you distinguish between a delayed transaction and one that’s been processed.
How to Use a Blockchain Explorer to Confirm a Transaction
The process of checking a transaction using an explorer is quite straightforward. While different explorers have their interfaces, you can follow these steps to conduct a check:
Step 1: Find Your Transaction Hash (TXID)
First, you need your transaction hash – or the Transaction ID.
The transaction hash is a unique identifier for every transaction. You can usually find it in your wallet’s history, so just open the relevant transaction and look for it.
If you’re the transaction sender, copy the entire hash. If you’re the recipient, request the hash from the person claiming to have sent the funds.
Step 2: Open the Correct Blockchain Explorer
Next, visit an explorer that supports the network used for your transaction.
For example:
- Bitcoin: Blockchain.com Explorer
- Ethereum: Etherscan
- TRON: TronScan
Be sure you’ve chosen the right network. An Ethereum transaction won’t show on the TRON explorer, and vice versa.
The same goes for coins that can work across different networks. For instance, you can find USDT on different blockchains (such as Ethereum and TRON). Check the network used for the transaction, then use an appropriate explorer.
Step 3: Enter the Transaction Hash
Once you’ve opened the right explorer, find its search bar and paste the transaction hash. Tap the search icon, and the transaction’s details will pop up.
If you don’t find any results, double-check the hash and confirm you’re on the right explorer.
Step 4: Review the Transaction Details
Finally, inspect the transaction information to make sure everything matches the payment you’re expecting.
Check the transaction status (successful, pending, or failed), confirm the wallet addresses, the amount that was sent, and other relevant information.
What Happens If A Transaction Doesn’t Appear In An Explorer?
If your transaction hash returns no results, don’t immediately assume that your funds are lost.
First, verify that you’ve copied the complete transaction hash. Then, confirm that the explorer supports the blockchain network used for the transfer.
If both details are correct, then the transaction could also not be visible yet because the explorer’s data source hasn’t yet captured it. So, check your wallet’s transaction status and consult the sending platform.
NOTE: The fact that a transaction was successful doesn’t always mean a wallet or an exchange has been credited. Sometimes, the receiving platform will need to perform its own checks before the balance becomes available.
Final Thoughts
A blockchain explorer is important for anyone who sends or receives crypto. It shows the important details of each transaction, allowing you to verify it and investigate any irregularities.
Using a blockchain explorer is simple. So, whether you’re transferring crypto between wallets, receiving payments, or depositing funds in an exchange, knowing how to work with an explorer gives you more confidence in your transactions.