> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.getblock.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.getblock.io/solana-advanced-data-tools/streamfirst.md). # StreamFirst StreamFirst is GetBlock's infrastructure solution for delivering faster (ultra-low latency) on-chain state updates from the Solana blockchain. By combining software-level acceleration with network-level optimization, StreamFirst enables developers to receive blockchain data faster than traditional RPC methods. This reduces the consistent polling updates, which either lead to timeouts or rate-limiting issues. ***Interested in building on Solana with StreamFirst?*** [***Reach us***](https://getblock.io/contact) ***for more information.*** ### Core Stack StreamFirst consists of two core optimization layers: 1. Software-level acceleration: Accelerated Yellowstone gRPC implementation 2. Network-level acceleration: Optimized shred-stream delivery via direct validator connections. StreamFirst optimizes the entire pipeline from validator broadcast to application delivery: * The network layer ensures the earliest possible data reception * Software layer ensures minimal processing latency * Result: Fastest end-to-end delivery of on-chain state updates ### How It Works #### Accelerated Yellowstone gRPC Yellowstone is a high-performance Geyser plugin that streams real-time blockchain data via gRPC interfaces. As a result of our partnership with the core Yellowstone team members, GetBlock's Accelerated Yellowstone implementation includes: * **Optimized data serialization:** Optimized the original version of the low-level logic to improve the speed of state updates compared to the original Yellowstone implementation, and reduced overhead in encoding and transmitting blockchain state. * **Enhanced filtering mechanisms:** More efficient subscription management for accounts, transactions, slots, and blocks * **Improved connection handling:** Better resource management for sustained high-throughput streams #### Shred-Stream Network Optimization Solana validators propagate blocks by breaking them into small fragments called "shreds" and distributing them via the Turbine protocol. StreamFirst taps into this raw data stream: * **Direct shred reception:** Receives block fragments (shreds) via UDP as validators broadcast them. * **Early state reconstruction:** Rebuilds block data before it's fully confirmed and distributed via standard RPC #### Frankfurt Data Center - Europe's Solana Hub GetBlock operates as a top-tier Solana node provider in Frankfurt, a zone with the highest density of Solana validator stake. This strategic positioning provides: * Proximity to major validators: Direct access to high-stake validators concentrated in the region * Ultra-low network latency: 6ms latency within Europe ![](/files/dumPwd6r76oKKrkaJLdq) * Optimal shred reception: Positioned to receive validator broadcasts with minimal delay The combination means you get blockchain state updates as validators are producing blocks, not after they've been fully processed and distributed. ### Technical Architecture Data Flow: 1. Block Production: Solana validators produce blocks and fragment them into "shreds." 2. State Reconstruction: Shreds are decoded and reassembled into transactions and account updates 3. Accelerated Processing: Optimized Yellowstone plugin processes data with reduced overhead 4. Client Delivery: Structured blockchain data streams to your application via standard gRPC ### Why StreamFirst is Important for Developers #### Speed Advantages Traditional RPC methods introduce latency at multiple stages: * Waiting for block confirmation * HTTP request/response overhead * JSON parsing and serialization StreamFirst bypasses these bottlenecks by: * Receiving data at the validator propagation speed * Using binary gRPC protocol (faster than JSON) * Streaming continuously without polling {% hint style="success" %} **Typical latency improvements:** 25-30ms faster than standard Yellowstone gRPC {% endhint %} #### Use Cases StreamFirst is ideal for applications where milliseconds matter: * High-frequency trading bots: React to price changes before slower competitors * MEV searchers: Identify arbitrage opportunities in real-time * DeFi protocols: Monitor liquidation events and oracle updates instantly * NFT sniping tools: Detect new listings and mints before they propagate widely * Analytics platforms: Collect comprehensive on-chain data with minimal delay * Wallet applications: Show users' balance and transaction updates in real-time #### Data Types Available StreamFirst supports all standard Yellowstone gRPC subscription types: * Account updates: Monitor balance changes, data modifications, and ownership transfers * Transaction streams: Receive all transactions or filter by program/account * Slot updates: Track block production and commitment levels * Block data: Full block information, including all transactions and metadata * Program logs: Subscribe to specific program execution logs ### Deployment and Availability StreamFirst is available as an add-on for GetBlock's dedicated Solana nodes. It's configured as a plugin in the node configurator and requires: * Dedicated node subscription * Geographic proximity to GetBlock's validator network for optimal performance * Additional fee based on data throughput requirements ### Conclusion StreamFirst gives developers a competitive edge by delivering Solana blockchain data at near-validator speed. The combination of accelerated Yellowstone software and optimized shard-stream networking, optimized shred-stream networking, and strategic Frankfurt positioning ensures low latency between your customer and dedicated node. This ensures your dApp has the earliest possible view of on-chain activity—critical for time-sensitive operations in DeFi, trading, and real-time analytics. *** For consultation on optimal deployment architecture for your specific use case, contact [GetBlock support team](https://getblock.io/contact/)