Ethereum is an open source software platform based on blockchain technology that allows developers to build and deploy decentralized smart contracts. Although Bitcoin is the most popular and widely recognized cryptocurrency, Ethereum is the second largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization.
The Ethereum platform was proposed in 2013 by Vitalik Buterin, a programmer and co-founder of Bitcoin Magazine. The development was funded by an online sale of "Ether" coins during the summer of 2014 and the network was launched on July 30, 2015.
How does Ethereum work?
Like Bitcoin, Ethereum operates on a blockchain network, a type of distributed ledger technology that records all transactions in a public ledger. However, while Bitcoin is intended to function as a digital currency, Ethereum is more than just a cryptocurrency. It provides a platform for creating and executing smart contracts.
Smart contracts are computer programs that automatically execute the terms of a contract when predefined conditions are met. They are stored on the Ethereum blockchain, which means they are decentralized and immutable. This means that once a smart contract is implemented on the blockchain, it cannot be altered, providing additional security.
Ether is the native currency of Ethereum and is used to facilitate transactions on the network. It is used to pay transaction fees and computational services on the Ethereum network.
Ethereum Mining
Like Bitcoin, Ethereum also uses a process called mining to add new transactions to its blockchain. However, instead of using the proof-of-work (PoW) algorithm that Bitcoin uses, Ethereum plans to switch to a proof-of-stake (PoS) algorithm called Ethereum 2.0 or simply 'Eth2'.
PoW mining requires miners to solve complex mathematical problems to add a new block to the blockchain. This process requires a significant amount of energy and computational power. On the other hand, PoS mining selects transaction validators based on the amount of cryptocurrency they are willing to 'stake' or lock in a security deposit. This makes the mining process more energy efficient and allows Ethereum to process transactions faster.
Decentralized applications (dApps)
One of the most notable features of Ethereum is the ability to develop decentralized applications (dApps) on its platform. dApps are applications that run on a P2P network of computers instead of on a single computer. They are similar to apps you can download on your phone or computer, but they are decentralized and use smart contracts to transact.
DApps have the potential to revolutionize the way people and businesses interact online. They can be used in a variety of industries including finance, real estate, healthcare and entertainment. Furthermore, since dApps are based on smart contracts, they can automate processes and eliminate the need for middlemen.
Tokenization
Ethereum also allows tokenization of assets. This means you can represent real-world assets like real estate, stocks or even works of art as tokens on the Ethereum blockchain. This can make trading these assets more efficient and transparent.
In addition, Ethereum is the most popular platform for creating cryptocurrency tokens, especially for Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs). Most cryptocurrency tokens are based on Ethereum's ERC-20 standard, which defines a common set of rules for all Ethereum tokens.
In summary, Ethereum is a powerful and versatile blockchain platform that has the potential to revolutionize many industries. While still in its early stages, the platform's potential is huge and is an exciting area to watch for years to come.
