Think of it as a search engine for a blockchain network. Block explorers let you view transactions, wallet addresses, token transfers, network fees, smart contract activity, and other publicly available blockchain data.
Block explorers are an essential part of how open and transparent blockchain networks work. They allow you to independently verify blockchain activity, even outside of the WireUp app.
Why Block Explorers Matter
Because blockchain networks are public and decentralized, every transaction is recorded on a shared ledger.
A block explorer lets you view:
- Transaction status
- Transaction hash (TXID)
- Amount sent or received
- Network fees
- Wallet addresses involved
- Token transfers
- Smart contract interactions
- Timestamp
- Block number
This transparency helps you confirm that your transactions were successfully processed by the blockchain.
Why You Might Use a Block Explorer
WireUp is designed to simplify interacting with blockchain networks, but there are times when viewing additional on-chain details can be helpful.
You might use a block explorer when:
- A transaction is pending and you want real-time status updates.
- You want to verify network fees.
- A transaction appears delayed or stuck.
- You want to independently verify a completed transaction.
- WireUp Support asks you to share a transaction URL while troubleshooting.
When available, WireUp may provide a link to the appropriate block explorer for the blockchain network you're using.
Examples of Popular Block Explorers
Different blockchain networks have their own explorers.
| Blockchain | Explorer |
|---|---|
| Bitcoin | Mempool.space |
| Ethereum | Etherscan |
| Solana | Solscan |
| Base | BaseScan |
| Arbitrum | Arbiscan |
Although each explorer has a different interface, they all provide similar blockchain information.
What You Can Do with a Block Explorer
Look Up a Transaction
Search using a transaction hash (also called a TXID, signature, or hash) to view:
- Transaction status
- Network fees
- Assets transferred
- Block confirmations
View a Wallet Address
A public wallet address allows you to view information such as:
- Token balances
- NFT holdings
- Transaction history
Only public blockchain information is displayed. Your recovery phrase and private keys are never visible.
Review Smart Contract Activity
Some blockchain explorers allow you to review smart contract interactions and other advanced transaction details.
Is Using a Block Explorer Safe?
Yes. Block explorers are read-only tools.
They cannot:
- Access your wallet
- Move your assets
- Use your recovery phrase
- Access your private keys
- Modify blockchain transactions
They simply display publicly available blockchain information.
When opening a block explorer from WireUp, your recovery phrase, private keys, and personal information are never shared.
Why WireUp Uses Block Explorers
Our goal is to provide transparency and help you better understand what's happening on the blockchain.
Block explorers allow you to:
- Independently verify blockchain activity
- Troubleshoot delayed transactions
- Review transaction details
- Access additional technical information when needed
They provide a trusted way to confirm blockchain activity beyond what is displayed within the WireUp app.