# Blockchain limitations

#### Building and Syncing a Node

Setting up a blockchain node can be extremely time-consuming, taking weeks or even months. The process is frustratingly slow, and it’s hard to predict when it will complete. As the Ethereum and Bitcoin blockchains grow daily, maintaining a stable network becomes increasingly challenging. Balancing blockchain configuration with hardware requirements can be costly and complex. While services like QuikNode and Infura offer nodes as a service, they may not provide all the APIs you need and can be expensive.

#### Understanding APIs and Transactions

Starting a blockchain application involves navigating a complex array of transactions and APIs. For instance, Ethereum transactions include internal transactions that can be difficult to manage and understand without simplification.

#### Performance Issues

Monitoring transactions for every address by scanning the blockchain is inefficient. Instead, you need a service that provides real-time notifications for transactions involving specific addresses, which can be achieved through a webhook API.