Flare launches Blockchain Machine Images on Google Cloud

Flare, the blockchain platform designed for data networks, has introduced a new tool aimed at simplifying and reducing the cost of blockchain node deployment. The product, called Blockchain Machine Images, is a node-as-a-service solution that allows Web3 developers to quickly and cost-effectively deploy nodes via Google Cloud’s marketplace.

This new solution supports major blockchain networks, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Avalanche, among others. With Blockchain Machine Images, developers can rapidly set up and sync dedicated blockchain nodes, enabling them to power decentralized applications, blockchain platforms, and data streams with ease.

According to Flare’s announcement on October 25, developers can spin up and sync nodes in just minutes, thanks to the service’s easy infrastructure setup. Additionally, users can select an image ID for autoscaling, making deployment even more streamlined.

One of the key selling points of this service is its affordability. While other node-as-a-service platforms can charge up to $2,000 per month, Flare offers the ability to run a dedicated node for just $300 per month. This makes it a more accessible option for businesses and developers.

The new node service also offers unlimited remote procedure calls, workloads, and data indexing. According to Josh Edwards, Flare’s VP of Engineering, this tool will be especially beneficial for Flare’s attestation providers. These independent entities play a crucial role in Flare’s ecosystem by retrieving data securely from external networks, such as Bitcoin or Ripple, and transmitting it to the blockchain for validation.

Overall, Flare’s Blockchain Machine Images provide a faster, more cost-efficient way to deploy nodes, supporting the broader blockchain ecosystem and offering key benefits for developers and businesses within the Web3 space.