Besu
Besu is an open source Ethereum client written in Java, supporting public and private Ethereum networks.
Overview
Besu is an open source Ethereum client developed under the Apache 2.0 license and implemented in Java. It is designed to run on both public Ethereum networks, including Mainnet and testnets like Holesky, Hoodi, Ephemery, and Sepolia, as well as private networks tailored for enterprise use cases requiring secure and high-performance transaction processing. Besu provides a command line interface and a JSON-RPC API accessible over HTTP and WebSocket, supporting common Ethereum JSON-RPC methods such as eth, net, web3, debug, and miner. It also supports Pub/Sub messaging for event subscriptions.
The client integrates with popular Ethereum development tools like Hardhat, Remix, and web3j, facilitating smart contract and decentralized application (dapp) development, deployment, and node operation. Besu does not handle key management internally; instead, it integrates with Web3Signer to manage keystores and sign transactions securely. This separation enhances security and modularity for enterprise deployments.
Besu stands out by offering a Java-based Ethereum client option that supports both public and permissioned private networks, making it suitable for enterprises and developers who require flexibility and compliance features. It includes advanced features such as performance profiling with Async Profiler, detailed EVM execution tracing, and comprehensive debugging tools. The client is actively maintained by the Hyperledger community, with extensive documentation, a Discord channel for support, and a transparent development roadmap.
Getting started with Besu involves downloading the binary or building from source, configuring the client for the desired network type, and using the JSON-RPC API or CLI for node management. Developers can contribute to the project or extend its functionality through the open-source codebase and community resources.
The Problem
Running and maintaining Ethereum nodes that support both public and private networks with enterprise-grade security and performance is complex. Developers and enterprises need a client that integrates well with existing Ethereum tooling while providing robust APIs and operational features.
The Solution
Key Features
Integration with popular Ethereum development tools
Compatible with Hardhat, Remix, and web3j for smart contract development and deployment workflows.
Support for Web3Signer for secure key management
Separates key management from the client, enhancing security by using Web3Signer to handle transaction signing.
Performance profiling and detailed EVM tracing
Includes Async Profiler support and JSON tracing for performance tuning and debugging at opcode level.
Key Strengths
How Developers Use Besu
Enterprise private blockchain deployments
Organizations use Besu to run permissioned Ethereum networks with enhanced privacy and transaction throughput.
Public Ethereum node operation
Developers and infrastructure providers run Besu nodes on Ethereum Mainnet and testnets to support dapps and services.
Smart contract development and testing
Developers leverage Besu’s JSON-RPC API and integration with tools like Hardhat and Remix for contract deployment and debugging.
Works Well WithEthereum
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Pricing
Open Source | |
|---|---|
| Price (Monthly) | Free |
| Price (Annual) | Free |
| Messaging | N/A |
| Support | Community support via Discord and GitHub |
| Analytics |
Resources
Besu offers extensive documentation, community support via Discord, and detailed developer guides covering installation, configuration, profiling, and debugging.