# XMTP API FAQ

> Frequently asked questions about the XMTP API

> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](/docs/llms.txt).

## What is XMTP?
XMTP Chain is a Layer-3 appchain built with Arbitrum that settles to Base, providing a decentralized ledger to consistently order XMTP’s messaging metadata.

## How do I get started with XMTP?
Check out our [XMTP API Quickstart guide](/docs/reference/xmtp-api-quickstart) to get started building on XMTP.

## What is the XMTP API?
The XMTP API lets you interface with the XMTP mainnet. You can execute transactions, query onchain data, and interact with the XMTP network using the JSON-RPC standard.

## Is XMTP EVM compatible?
Yes, XMTP is EVM compatible.

## What API does XMTP use?
XMTP uses the JSON-RPC API standard. This API enables blockchain interactions on the XMTP network, letting you read block/transaction data, query chain information, execute smart contracts, and store data onchain.

## What methods are supported on XMTP?
XMTP supports standard Ethereum JSON-RPC methods. Some chain-specific methods may vary. Please check the [XMTP API Endpoints](/docs/chains#xmtp-apis) for a complete list.

## What is a XMTP API key?
When accessing the XMTP network via a node provider like Alchemy, you use an API key to send transactions and retrieve data from the network. For the best development experience, we recommend that you [sign up for a free API key](https://dashboard.alchemy.com/signup).

## Which libraries support XMTP?
Common Ethereum libraries like [ethers.js](https://docs.ethers.org/v5/) should be compatible with XMTP, given its EVM nature.

## My question isn’t here, where can I get help?
If you have any questions or feedback, contact us at support@alchemy.com or open a ticket in the Alchemy Dashboard.