The Ethereum Graph Debugger (EGD) is an innovative tool designed to simplify the debugging process for Ethereum transactions. Unlike traditional debugging methods that require you to step through code line by line, EGD visualizes the entire control flow in a graph format. This allows developers to navigate through their programs quickly, identifying issues with ease. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to use the Ethereum Graph Debugger effectively and provide troubleshooting tips along the way.

Getting Started with EGD

Before diving into debugging, you’ll need to set up the Ethereum Graph Debugger. Here’s how to get started:

• Download the EGD: Use the release link for the latest stable version: v3.6.0.
• For the latest code: Clone the repository and run the application:
  • Open your terminal and run: git clone https://github.com/fergarrui/ethereum-graph-debugger.git
  • Change to the new directory: cd ethereum-graph-debugger
  • Install npm packages: npm install
  • Start the application: npm start

After installation, navigate to localhost:9090 in your web browser to access the interface.

Using Docker

If you prefer to use Docker, follow these steps:

• Run the Docker command: docker-compose up
• Visit localhost:9090 in your web browser.
• Add contracts to the newly created .contracts directory.
• Leave the Load contracts from URI form empty for now.

Debugging Ethereum Contracts

Once you’re set up, you can start debugging your Ethereum contracts easily:

• Go to localhost:9090.
• Enter the path where your Solidity contracts are located in the input text box to load them recursively.
• A separate tab will open for each file found, allowing you to conduct different actions through the left menu.

Debugging Bytecode without Source Code

Sometimes, you may need to debug raw bytecode. Here’s how to do it:

• Create a file with the extension .evm and paste the encoded bytecode with a 0x prefix.
• For example, create contract1.evm with the content 0x60806040.
• Run the scanning process as previously described for contracts.

Understanding the Features

The EGD offers an array of features:

• Interactive Interface: With a separate frontend and API, interaction is straightforward.
• Control Flow Graph (CFG): Visualize the complete control flow, aiding in understanding the program’s execution.
• Storage Viewer: Retrieve and view storage layouts and values seamlessly.
• Disassembler: View disassembled opcodes in their raw form.
• Settings: Configure RPC endpoints and basic authentication for secure access.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues while using the Ethereum Graph Debugger, here are some ideas to troubleshoot:

• Ensure you are running a supported node (like Geth or Ganache) that supports debug_traceTransaction, as Infura does not support this functionality.
• If you notice any performance glitches or bugs post-rewrite, consider cloning the latest version from the master branch of the repository.
• If the application fails to start properly, double-check the installation of npm packages and your Node.js version.
• For more insights, updates, or to collaborate on AI development projects, stay connected with fxis.ai.

Conclusion

The Ethereum Graph Debugger is a powerful tool that streamlines the debugging process for Ethereum transactions. By visualizing the control flow and allowing for interactive sessions, it enhances your ability to pinpoint issues in your contracts. At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations.

Explore More

As you become familiar with the Ethereum Graph Debugger, remember that there are existing tools such as Remix, Truffle, and Tenderly that also provide functionalities for Ethereum debugging. Each tool has its distinct features, so feel free to explore them for a comprehensive debugging experience.