Introduction
When making a bank transfer, if the funds don’t reflect after a long wait, most people would call the bank’s customer service. But what should you do if a cryptocurrency transfer hasn’t arrived after hours?The answer is a blockchain explorer! Blockchain transactions are transparent and publicly verifiable. A blockchain explorer acts as a search engine for transaction records, allowing users to track their transfers and access other on-chain data.
Below is a step-by-step guide to using Etherscan, the leading Ethereum blockchain explorer.
1. Querying Transactions via Hash (TxHash)
What Is a Transaction Hash?
A transaction hash (TxHash) is a unique identifier for your transfer, similar to a bank transaction ID. It enables you to track the progress of your crypto transfer.
Information Available via TxHash
- Verify transaction existence
- Check transaction timestamp
- Monitor transaction status (pending/confirmed)
Where to Find the TxHash
If sending via an exchange, the platform usually provides a hash (labels may vary). Contact customer support if needed.
Steps to Query by TxHash
- Visit Etherscan.
- Paste the TxHash into the search bar and click Query.
- Review the transaction details, including:
| Field | Description |
|-------|------------|
| Gas Limit | Maximum gas allocated for the transaction (default: 21,000). |
| Gas Used | Actual gas consumed. |
| Gas Price | Dynamic fee set by the user (varies with network congestion). |
| Transaction Fee | Calculated as Gas Used × Gas Price. |
| Nonce | Anti-duplication counter (can typically be ignored). |
| Input Data | Optional memo field (e.g., for messages). |
👉 Learn how to optimize gas fees
2. Querying Transactions via Wallet Address
Information Available via Address
- Total assets and their market value.
- Full transaction history.
Steps to Query by Address
Enter the wallet address in Etherscan’s search bar.
- Autocomplete may suggest addresses with prior on-chain activity.
Click Query to view:
- Asset balances (ETH/tokens).
- In/out transaction logs.
- Click any TxHash for granular details.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why is my Ethereum transaction pending for hours?
A: Network congestion or low gas fees can delay confirmations. Use Etherscan to check if it’s stuck and consider resubmitting with higher gas.
Q2: Can I cancel a pending transaction?
A: Yes, by sending a new transaction with the same nonce and higher gas, effectively overriding the original.
Q3: Is sharing my wallet address safe?
A: Yes—addresses are public. However, never share private keys or seed phrases.
Q4: What’s the difference between Gas Limit and Gas Price?
A: Gas Limit caps computational work, while Gas Price determines fee priority.
👉 Master Ethereum wallet security
Conclusion
Etherscan simplifies tracking Ethereum transactions and wallet activity. Whether verifying a TxHash or auditing an address, this tool ensures transparency in decentralized finance.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Cryptocurrency investments carry risks; conduct thorough research before proceeding.