NOWNodes API Documentation: A Practical Guide to the RPC Provider

What NOWNodes API Documentation Covers

The NOWNodes API documentation is the primary reference for developers who want to connect to blockchain networks through NOWNodes' RPC infrastructure. It describes supported chains, endpoint formats, authentication requirements, and the JSON-RPC methods available for each network.

Because NOWNodes supports many blockchains, the documentation is organized by network. Each network section typically lists the base endpoint, required API key parameter, and examples of common RPC calls. This structure helps developers move from a general overview to chain-specific implementation details.

The documentation is intended for developers building wallets, dApps, analytics tools, or backend services that need reliable access to blockchain data without running their own nodes.

• Supported blockchain networks and their endpoint URLs
• API key authentication and request formatting
• JSON-RPC method references for each chain
• Example requests and responses
• Rate limits and usage considerations

How to Access NOWNodes API Documentation

The documentation is available on the NOWNodes website. Developers can browse it without an account, but making actual RPC calls requires an API key. The documentation usually includes a quick-start section that walks through account creation and key generation.

After signing up, users can find their API key in the dashboard. The documentation explains how to append this key to endpoint URLs or include it in request headers, depending on the network and method.

For developers evaluating the service, the documentation may also describe free or trial access options. Exact limits and availability can change, so it is best to check the current documentation or account dashboard for the most accurate details.

• Visit the official NOWNodes website and navigate to the documentation section
• Create an account to obtain an API key
• Review the quick-start guide for your target blockchain
• Check the dashboard for current usage limits and plan details

Understanding NOWNodes RPC Endpoints and API Keys

NOWNodes provides RPC endpoints for each supported blockchain. These endpoints follow a consistent pattern, typically including the network name and an API key parameter. For example, a Bitcoin mainnet endpoint might look like a URL with the chain identifier and your key appended.

The API key is required for authentication. Without it, requests will be rejected. The documentation shows how to include the key, often as a query parameter or in the request path. Developers should keep their API keys secure and avoid exposing them in client-side code.

Endpoint URLs and authentication methods can vary by network. Always refer to the specific network section in the documentation for the exact format.

• Endpoints are network-specific and include a base URL plus your API key
• API keys are generated in the NOWNodes dashboard
• Keys should be stored securely and rotated if compromised
• Some networks may support additional authentication headers

https://btc.nownodes.io/api/v2/address/{address}?api_key=YOUR_API_KEY

Making JSON-RPC Calls with NOWNodes

Most NOWNodes endpoints accept JSON-RPC requests. The documentation provides examples for common methods such as retrieving block data, checking balances, and sending transactions. The exact methods depend on the blockchain.

A typical JSON-RPC request includes a method name, parameters, and an ID. The response contains the result or an error. Developers can use tools like curl, Postman, or any HTTP client to test calls.

For Ethereum-compatible networks, methods like eth_blockNumber, eth_getBalance, and eth_sendRawTransaction are commonly documented. For Bitcoin-like networks, methods may include getblockchaininfo, getblock, and sendrawtransaction.

• Use POST requests with a JSON body for JSON-RPC methods
• Include the API key in the URL or headers as specified
• Check the documentation for method availability per network
• Handle errors and rate limits gracefully in your application

curl -X POST https://eth.nownodes.io \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{"jsonrpc":"2.0","method":"eth_blockNumber","params":[],"id":1}'

Common Use Cases and Integration Tips

Developers use NOWNodes RPC endpoints for a variety of applications, including wallet balance checks, transaction broadcasting, smart contract interactions, and blockchain data indexing. The documentation helps map these use cases to specific RPC methods.

When integrating, consider implementing retry logic and monitoring for rate limits. The documentation may outline rate limits per plan, but these can change, so verify current limits in your account dashboard.

For production systems, it is good practice to use environment variables for API keys and to test against testnet endpoints where available. The documentation often includes testnet URLs alongside mainnet.

• Wallets: query balances and broadcast transactions
• dApps: interact with smart contracts via eth_call and eth_sendTransaction
• Analytics: fetch blocks and transaction data for indexing
• Always test on testnet before mainnet deployment

Troubleshooting and Support Resources

If requests fail, check that your API key is valid and included correctly. Common errors include 401 Unauthorized (missing or invalid key), 429 Too Many Requests (rate limit exceeded), and method not found (unsupported RPC method for that network).

The NOWNodes documentation may include a troubleshooting section or FAQ. For additional help, developers can contact support through the website. Community forums and developer channels can also be useful for peer support.

Because blockchain networks and APIs evolve, documentation is updated periodically. Bookmark the official documentation and check for changes when upgrading your integration.

• Verify API key and endpoint URL
• Check rate limits and plan restrictions
• Confirm the RPC method is supported on the target network
• Consult official support channels for unresolved issues