// GLOSSARY -- WEB3 INFRASTRUCTURE

What is Alchemy?

1 min read Updated

Alchemy is a leading blockchain infrastructure platform providing RPC nodes, enhanced APIs, and developer tools — powering thousands of Web3 applications with reliable, scalable blockchain access.

WHY IT MATTERS

Alchemy is the AWS of Web3. It provides the infrastructure that dApps, wallets, and protocols need: reliable RPC nodes, enhanced APIs (token balances, NFT data, transaction history), webhooks, and debugging tools.

Beyond basic infrastructure, Alchemy offers: Account Kit (account abstraction), Subgraphs (The Graph partnership), gas management APIs, and blockchain analytics. This full-stack approach reduces the number of vendors developers need.

Alchemy supports 30+ chains and serves major protocols including Uniswap, Aave, and OpenSea. Its free tier makes it accessible for individual developers and startups.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Alchemy vs Infura?
Both provide RPC infrastructure. Alchemy offers more enhanced APIs and developer tools. Infura is MetaMask's default and has longer track record. Many developers use both for redundancy.
Is Alchemy free?
Free tier includes limited requests per day. Sufficient for development and small applications. Production apps typically need paid plans starting at $49/month.
Do I need Alchemy?
You need RPC access from somewhere. Alchemy, Infura, or QuickNode are the main options. Running your own node is alternative but requires more operational overhead.

FURTHER READING

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