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How to Fix RPC Error

Overview​

This guide provides resources to help you resolve common RPC (Remote Procedure Call) errors encountered when interacting with blockchain networks through your wallet or dApps like Pinksale. RPC errors often mean your wallet is having trouble communicating with the currently selected network node. Reading this will help you:

  • Understand what an RPC error generally signifies.
  • Discover a key resource (Chainlist.org) for finding alternative RPC nodes.
  • Access a video guide potentially demonstrating how to use these resources.
  • Find answers to common questions about RPCs and switching nodes.

Fixing RPC Errors Using Alternative Nodes​

RPC errors usually stem from issues with the specific network node (server) your wallet is currently using to talk to the blockchain. This node might be overloaded, slow, or temporarily out of sync. Switching to a different, more reliable RPC node for that network often resolves these problems.

Key Resources:

  1. Chainlist: This website provides a comprehensive list of RPC nodes for various EVM-compatible blockchains (like BSC, Ethereum, Polygon, Avalanche, etc.). You can use it to find alternative nodes, check their status/latency, and often add them directly to your MetaMask wallet with a few clicks.

  2. Video Guide: This video likely demonstrates how to identify RPC issues and potentially use a tool like Chainlist to switch nodes in your wallet:

Q&A (FAQs)​

  • Q1: What does RPC stand for and what does it do?

    • A: RPC stands for Remote Procedure Call. In blockchain, an RPC node acts as an intermediary or gateway that lets your wallet (like MetaMask) send requests (e.g., check balance, submit transaction) and receive information from the blockchain network.

  • Q2: Why do RPC errors happen?

    • A: They can occur if the specific RPC node your wallet is connected to is overloaded with traffic, temporarily offline for maintenance, experiencing high latency (slowness), or slightly out of sync with the rest of the network.

  • Q3: How does Chainlist help?

    • A: Chainlist aggregates public RPC endpoints for many chains. It often shows status indicators (latency, height) to help you identify nodes that are currently performing well. Crucially, it usually provides a simple "Connect Wallet" or "Add to MetaMask" button for easily configuring your wallet to use a chosen node.

  • Q4: Is it safe to use RPC nodes listed on Chainlist?

    • A: Chainlist lists publicly available RPC endpoints provided by various infrastructure providers or the chains themselves. While generally safe for reading blockchain data and submitting standard transactions (which are always signed by your wallet), be mindful that the node operator can see your IP address and the transaction data you submit before it's broadcast. For maximum privacy, advanced users might consider running their own node or using privacy-focused RPC services. For most users, public nodes from Chainlist are acceptable.

Troubleshooting​

  • Q: I went to Chainlist, found a new RPC, and added it to MetaMask, but I still have errors.

    • A: Ensure you selected the correct network on Chainlist and successfully added and switched to the new RPC endpoint within your MetaMask network settings. Sometimes even alternative nodes can be temporarily overloaded; try another well-performing node from Chainlist. Also, ensure the issue isn't something else (like insufficient gas funds in your wallet or a problem with the dApp itself).

  • Q: Chainlist doesn't list the specific blockchain network I'm using.

    • A: Chainlist primarily focuses on EVM-compatible chains. If you're using a non-EVM chain or a very new one, you might need to find RPC endpoints from the project's official documentation, community channels (like Discord/Telegram), or block explorer.

  • Q: How do I manually add or change an RPC node in my wallet if Chainlist integration doesn't work?

    • A: Most wallets (like MetaMask) have a "Network Settings" or "Add Network" section. You can manually input the Network Name, New RPC URL, Chain ID, Currency Symbol, and Block Explorer URL obtained from Chainlist or the network's official documentation. Then, select that newly added network configuration to use it.