What is update authority on Solana?
Short answer: Update authority is the address attached to a Solana token's Metaplex metadata that is allowed to change the on-chain name, symbol, image, and links. Revoke it to permanently lock the metadata. Keep it if you may need to refresh the logo, description, or socials later.
How update authority works
Every Solana token created with Metaplex metadata has a dedicated metadata account that points to the off-chain JSON describing the token. That metadata account has an update authority. Only this address can sign instructions that change the metadata fields or repoint the URI.
When to keep update authority
- Project tokens that plan to rebrand, update the logo, or refine the description.
- Tokens with evolving social links where Telegram, X, or website URLs may change.
- DAO-controlled tokens where the authority is moved to a multisig or program-derived address rather than revoked outright.
When to revoke it
- Memecoins where holders expect the brand and image to be immutable.
- Tokens with an explicit immutability narrative.
- Whenever the metadata is final and you want to remove the human risk of metadata being changed under holders.
How TheTokenLauncher handles it
On the Solana creator there is a single tickbox to Revoke update authority. If you tick it, the deployment transaction sets the authority to null. If you leave it off, the deployer wallet keeps the authority and you can revoke later from your dashboard.
Configure authorities at launch
Open the Solana creator and choose mint, freeze, and update authority settings before you pay.
Create Solana tokenFrequently asked questions
What can the update authority change?
The on-chain Metaplex metadata: name, symbol, image URI, description, links, and the metadata pointer itself. It does not change supply, decimals, or mint authority.
Why would I keep update authority?
So you can refresh the logo, fix a typo in the name or description, or update social links after launch. Project tokens with planned milestones often keep it.
Why would I revoke it?
To prove the metadata is permanent. Holders know the name and image cannot be changed under them, which is a trust signal especially for memecoins.
Is revoking update authority reversible?
No. Once revoked the metadata account is locked and no further changes are possible.
Does revoking update authority affect trading?
No. Trading, transfers, and DEX listings work the same. Only metadata changes are blocked.
Can I revoke update authority later instead of at launch?
Yes. You can revoke at any time after launch by signing a single transaction from the current update authority. Revoking at launch on TheTokenLauncher saves that step.