Peer Discovery Tool

WHAT IT DOES

Peer Discovery Tool is a developer tool that simulates peer discovery for Ethereum nodes. Select the network (Mainnet, Sepolia, Goerli, or Holesky), configure bootstrap nodes, and set the maximum number of peers — the tool discovers simulated peers with their node IDs, IP addresses, ports, client versions, status (online/offline/unknown), latency, and blockchain height. It displays the discovery status, network, max peers, total found peers, and a detailed table of discovered peers. This is essential for developers learning about Ethereum's peer-to-peer networking, understanding node discovery, or testing peer connection configurations.

HOW TO USE

Connect your wallet using the BGWallet bridge (MetaMask or any Web3 wallet). Select the network — Ethereum Mainnet, Sepolia, Goerli, or Holesky. Enter bootstrap node information (simulated, default is a placeholder). Set the maximum number of peers to discover (default 25). Click "Discover peers" to simulate the discovery process. Results display the discovery status, network, max peers, and total found peers. A table shows each discovered peer with its node ID, IP:Port, client version, status (with a color-coded dot and badge), latency, and blockchain height. The tool simulates realistic peer data including random IP addresses, client versions (Geth, Nethermind, Besu, Erigon, OpenEthereum), and latency values. This is useful for understanding the peer discovery process and the types of information exchanged.

TECHNICAL MECHANISM

The tool simulates peer discovery using client-side logic. It generates a random node ID (enode format) and a bootstrap node reference. It then generates a random number of peers (1 to maxPeers) with simulated attributes: node ID (64 hex characters), random IP addresses (IPv4 format), random ports (30000-40000), random client versions from a predefined list, status (online/offline/unknown with weighted probabilities), latency (10-210ms), and blockchain height (1-11 million). The discovery process is instant — it simulates the Kademlia-based discovery protocol used by Ethereum nodes. The tool does not actually connect to any real nodes — the discovery is a simulation for demonstration and educational purposes. All operations are performed client-side — no data is stored or transmitted. The tool is read-only and does not sign any transactions.

WHAT IT CANNOT SEE

The tool cannot actually discover peers without a running node instance — the discovery is a simulation. It cannot provide real-time peer network topology — the simulation is static. It cannot detect malicious or suspicious peers — the simulation does not include security analysis. It cannot monitor peer connectivity or latency — the values are simulated. It cannot manage peer banning or scoring — the simulation does not include peer management. It cannot connect to real Ethereum nodes without a proper node implementation. The tool is read-only and does not sign any transactions.

PLEASE NOTE

This tool works exclusively with EVM-compatible chains for the wallet connection, but the peer discovery simulation is chain-agnostic. Solana, Tron, Starknet, SUI, TON, Aptos, Bitcoin, Cosmos, and XRP are not supported for wallet connection but the simulation works regardless. The tool provides a simulation — for real peer discovery, run a node with Geth, Nethermind, or other Ethereum clients. The tool does not store any data — all operations are performed client-side. The tool is provided as-is with no warranty or liability. Always verify peer information from trusted sources.