Ethereum: Geth: Number of finalized block is missing
Ethereum: Geth – A Common Issue with Missing Block Completion Count
As a long-time Ethereum developer and user, I recently experienced an unexpected power outage that left me struggling to launch my Geth + Prysm clients. What was supposed to be a seamless process quickly turned into a frustrating experience when I realized that the block completion count on the blockchain had skipped a day.
This issue is not unique to this specific situation; it is a common issue faced by many Ethereum users, including developers and users who rely on Geth or other decentralized applications (dApps) built on the Ethereum network. In this article, we will look at the reasons behind this issue and explore potential solutions to prevent similar issues in the future.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the details of the issue, it is essential to understand a few basic concepts related to Ethereum and its blockchain:
- Block: A block is a collection of transactions, known as blocks, that are added to the blockchain.
- Finished Block Number (FBN): The FBN represents the most recent block number on the Ethereum network.
- Prysm: Prysm is an Ethereum-based cryptocurrency that uses a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism.
The Problem with Geth and Prysm Clients
When using Geth or Prysm clients to access the Ethereum blockchain, you should be aware of the following:
- The client’s local FBN is not always in sync with the global FBN.
- If a block is not successfully included in a blockchain, it may skip a day and appear as if it has been lost.
Cause of the problem
There are several reasons why this problem may occur:
- Network congestion: High network congestion can cause blocks to be delayed or skipped.
- Server issues: Server issues or maintenance can affect block inclusion and synchronization.
- Local configuration: Incorrect local configurations, such as outdated blockchain data, can lead to discrepancies between the client’s FBN and the global FBN.
Workarounds and Workarounds
While there are no guaranteed solutions to prevent the issue from occurring, here are some workarounds you can try:
- Synchronize your clients: Make sure both Geth and Prysm clients are running with their local FBNs set to match the global FBN.
- Adjust your client configuration: Check if your client has any settings that could be causing the issue, such as a custom blockchain or a modified local blockchain data file.
- Contact support: Contact the Geth and Prysm teams for assistance in resolving the issue.
While this issue is not unique to Ethereum, it highlights the importance of understanding the underlying mechanisms of the network and being prepared to troubleshoot issues that may arise.
By understanding the causes behind this issue and implementing workarounds or seeking support, you can minimize the impact of the issue on your daily activities.