> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.theblockchainlibrary.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# RPC Endpoint

> A network URL through which software sends remote procedure calls to a blockchain node or node service.

# RPC Endpoint

A network URL through which software sends remote procedure calls to a blockchain node or node service.

## Definition

A network URL through which software sends remote procedure calls to a blockchain node or node service.

## Why it matters

Developer tooling connects applications and software to blockchain nodes, data, and smart contracts.

## How it works

An application sends a JSON-formatted HTTP POST request to the RPC URL. The request includes a method name (e.g., 'eth\_getBalance') and required parameters. The node receives the request, processes the logic against its local copy of the blockchain, and sends back the result as a JSON object.

## Real-world example

The default RPC endpoint configured in MetaMask for the Ethereum Mainnet, or a custom Alchemy URL for a specific dApp.

## Advantages

* Standardized communication format
* Easy for applications to consume
* Compatible with most Web3 wallets

## Limitations

* Endpoints can become slow or congested
* Privacy issues with IP exposure
* Vulnerable to rate limiting/blocking

## Common misconceptions

* You can only have one RPC endpoint; users can configure multiple to improve reliability. Your RPC endpoint can see your private keys; it should only ever receive signed, public transactions.

## Related knowledge

* [Blockchain](/categories/blockchain) — term
* [Cryptography](/categories/cryptography) — term
* [Web3](/categories/web3) — term

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**Canonical knowledge ID:** `glossary:rpc-endpoint`