Ethereum: How can you find out what is the latest block number?

**Ethereum: 2017-01-19 10:00:00 AM |

When starting a new Ethereum client or after a period of inactivity, it can take a while for the network to catch up and download new blocks. One key indicator of when this has happened is the target block number, also known as the “target” or “height.” In this article, we’ll look at how to find out what the latest block number is.

Why Do Ethereum Clients Have to Wait?

The Ethereum blockchain is made up of a series of blocks, each containing new transactions and data. Each block has a unique identifier called a “block hash,” which serves as a reference point for verifying transactions on the network. When a client needs to check the latest block number, it must download all previous blocks from the blockchain.

This process is called block validation. As the client downloads each block, it updates its internal state with the latest information about network activity. The time it takes for the client to check and update this status depends on several factors, including:

• Network speed: A faster connection means the client can download blocks faster.

• Number of concurrent transactions: More transactions running at the same time increases the time required to check a block.

• Blockchain complexity: A more complex chain with multiple layers and branches may require a longer check time.

How ​​to check the latest block number

To determine what the latest block number is, you can use one or more of the following methods:

• Check your client’s documentation: Most Ethereum clients have a built-in help system that will tell you how to check the latest block number.

• Use the --block-number option: When running the client from the command line, add the --block-number option followed by the value of the target field in your configuration file or client settings. For example:

ethers . js -- config path / to / config . json -- target = 0x1234567890abcdef

This will show the current block number.

• Check a blockchain explorer

  

  : A blockchain explorer such as Ethereum Explorer (e.g. [etherscan.io]( provides information about the latest block number, including the target field.

• Use an online tool: There are several online tools that allow you to check the latest Ethereum block number, such as [Ethereum Block Number Calculator](

Conclusion

Finding the latest block number is a crucial step in understanding how your Ethereum client is working and if there are any block validation issues. Using one or more of the above methods, you should be able to determine what the current target block number is.

Remember that the network is constantly evolving, so even if you recently found the latest block number, it may have changed since then. Always keep your client up to date and check your blockchain explorer regularly for updates or network issues.