Using a blockchain explorer

What is a blockchain explorer?

A blockchain explorer is a specialized website that gives you access to the data recorded on a blockchain network. With it, you’re able to search for and view the complete history and current details of a transaction, address, or block.

This is possible because blockchains are public ledgers. You don’t need to create an account, just open the explorer to check transactions whenever you want. These explorers are maintained by both independent groups and certain blockchain projects themselves. All information you see is pulled from the actual blockchain. Addresses are long combinations of characters, as described in our wallet addresses article. To avoid errors, pick a reputable explorer that supports the blockchain you used.

How to read a transaction on an explorer

1. To locate a transaction, copy its unique identifier (TXID or transaction hash) from your wallet or your account’s transaction records.
2. Go to an explorer for the right network and paste the TXID into the search field.
3. Look for the status label. This will say if your transaction is pending, confirmed, or failed.
4. Review additional details: the number of confirmations, network fee, sender and recipient addresses often appear immediately below.
5. Check the amounts and addresses. These should match what you meant to send or receive.

Updates on the explorer follow as each new block is added. If you see zero confirmations, this means the network hasn’t yet included your transaction in a block. For more about the meaning behind the confirmation number, you can review our confirmation guide.

Example: checking a missing deposit

Let’s say you’ve sent coins to an exchange and the funds aren’t showing up. Start by finding and copying your transaction ID, then enter it on the right explorer. If you see three confirmations, but you know the exchange asks for six, that means the deposit is partway there. All you need to do is wait for a few more blocks.

But if, when you check, the explorer says the coins went to an unfamiliar address, that’s a separate issue. Make a note of the destination address, the transferred amount, and the transaction time. Then contact the exchange support with the full transaction ID. Never reveal your recovery phrase or private keys to anyone, no matter who asks.

What to send support when a transfer is missing

Support staff will always need certain details to investigate: your transaction ID, the specific coin or token, the blockchain network used, where you sent the funds from, the total amount, what time you sent it, and any memo or tag you entered. Having these ready allows them to match what you did on the blockchain to their internal logs. If someone asks for your password or private key, don’t share it, real support will never need those.

If your transfer hasn’t completed but isn’t actually missing, see our article about delayed crypto transactions. A blockchain explorer is a read-only tool, you can’t reverse or recall payments by using it. Cryptocurrency prices change often and most networks don’t allow chargebacks, so always double-check each step before you hit confirm.

Frequently asked questions