// GLOSSARY -- WEB3 INFRASTRUCTURE

What is Infura?

1 min read Updated

Infura is a blockchain infrastructure service by Consensys providing Ethereum and multi-chain RPC access — notable as MetaMask's default RPC provider and one of the longest-running blockchain API services.

WHY IT MATTERS

Infura has been a backbone of Ethereum development since 2016. As MetaMask's default RPC provider, it handles a massive share of Ethereum API requests. This makes it effectively critical infrastructure for the Ethereum ecosystem.

Infura provides: RPC access to Ethereum and multiple chains, IPFS API, archive node access, and enhanced APIs. Its reliability track record is long, though outages have historically impacted the broader ecosystem.

The centralization concern: dependence on Infura means a single point of failure for many applications. This has driven interest in decentralized RPC alternatives and multi-provider strategies.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is Infura centralized?
Yes — it's operated by Consensys. If Infura goes down, many applications lose access. The solution: use multiple providers, self-host nodes, or use decentralized RPC networks as fallback.
Infura vs Alchemy?
Infura: longer track record, MetaMask default, Consensys ecosystem. Alchemy: more developer tools, enhanced APIs, broader chain support. Both are reliable choices.
What chains does Infura support?
Ethereum, Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, and other major chains. Coverage continues expanding. Check Infura's documentation for current chain support.

FURTHER READING

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