In the world of cryptocurrency, where innovation and technology run hand in hand, Ethereum works like a superpower for developers. It enables them to build solution to cater to a decentralized world. Ethereum is the world’s second-largest crypto project by market capitalization and was the first to introduce smart contract functionality to the industry and create decentralized apps that run on its global network of nodes. 

What is Ethereum?

Ethereum is a decentralized blockchain platform that creates a peer-to-peer network that securely executes and verifies application code, called smart contracts. It is like the adventurous cousin of Bitcoin. While Bitcoin primarily deals with transferring its own tokens, Ethereum takes it up a notch. It’s all about smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps) that make the digital world go around.

Imagine Ethereum as a global playground for developers. They get to create these cool dApps that run on what’s known as the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). This not only tracks account balances but also the exciting state of each dApp.

The magic ingredient for dApp creation is a programming language called Solidity. With it, developers can whip up smart contracts and launch them on the Ethereum Network, adding new layers of functionality.

But here’s where Ethereum really rocks the boat. While Bitcoin relies on energy-intensive Proof of Work, Ethereum has adopted Proof of Stake (PoS). It’s like a high-stakes poker game played across all the computers in its network. This transition was sealed with the Serenity Patch in September 2022. If you want to dive deeper into the world of Proof of Work, you’ll find that in the later Sophomore track.

But how was Ethereum invented? What was the origin? Let’s look into the history.

Who Created Ethereum?

The origin of Ethereum traces back to the visionary Vitalik Buterin, a youthful programmer and co-founder of Bitcoin Magazine. An inquisitive student gifted with exceptional programming skills, Buterin’s journey into the world of cryptocurrencies was influenced by his passion for gaming. He played World of Warcraft from 2007 to 2010 but abandoned the game when Blizzard altered his favorite warlock’s Siphon Life skill.

In 2011, Buterin’s fascination with Bitcoin ignited his desire to contribute actively. He began writing articles about Bitcoin in exchange for the digital currency. Later in the same year, he co-founded Bitcoin Magazine, embracing crypto full-time. His global exploration of various crypto projects revealed a common potential – the integration of a Turing-complete general-purpose programming language into a blockchain.

In 2014, Vitalik and a team of people like Mihai Alise, Anthony Di Iorio, Charles Hoskinson, Joe Lubin, and Gavin Wood announced Ethereum to the public. To fund its development, they held an Initial Coin Offering (ICO) and raised a significant amount of money. They also established the Ethereum Foundation, a non-profit organization, to support Ethereum’s development. This foundation was based in Switzerland. Ethereum’s uniqueness comes from its ability to use a flexible programming language called Solidity, making it more than just a digital currency like Bitcoin.

However, the common confusion is how Bitcoin is different from Ethereum. Is there any difference between them? 

Is Ethereum different from Bitcoin?

Even though they both rely on blockchain technology, they have distinct purposes and values. Here are the key differences:

1. Origin and Purpose:

Bitcoin, introduced by the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto in 2009, was primarily created as a digital alternative to traditional currencies. It’s designed to be a decentralized form of money, resistant to government interference and inflation. Its main roles are as a medium of exchange, store of value, and, for some, a unit of account.

Ethereum, on the other hand, was founded in 2014 by Vitalik Buterin with a broader vision. While it has its cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), its real purpose goes beyond transactions. It’s a platform for developers to create and deploy smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps), enabling programmable transactions and a wide range of applications beyond simple currency exchange.

2. Smart Contracts and DApps:

Ethereum’s standout feature is its ability to facilitate smart contracts and DApps. While Bitcoin does have a basic smart contract functionality, Ethereum’s is more versatile, allowing for various applications, from games to decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms.

3. Tokenomics:

Bitcoin has a limited supply, with a maximum of 21 million coins ever to be mined. This scarcity is a core part of its value proposition.

Ethereum, in contrast, doesn’t have a strict supply cap. However, with its shift to Proof of Stake (PoS) in 2022, it has exhibited more deflationary characteristics in its supply dynamics.

In essence, both Bitcoin and Ethereum use blockchain technology but serve different aspects of the digital economy. Bitcoin aims to change the way we use and perceive money, while Ethereum aims to transform how applications and agreements operate in a decentralized environment.

How does Ethereum work? 

Ethereum is more than just a digital currency transfer system, and its workings have some unique elements:

1. Smart Contracts: 

Smart contracts are like tiny computer programs that run on every computer in the Ethereum network without any central control. They’re super handy because they let you create contracts that can be automatically enforced by code. These are self-executing contracts with terms written in code. Once deployed on the Ethereum blockchain, they automatically carry out predefined actions when certain conditions are met. For example, a smart contract could move funds from one party to another on a specific date.

2. Decentralized Applications (DApps):

DApps are applications that run on Ethereum’s blockchain. Making the most of Ethereum’s smart contracts, they ensure that all data and transactions are secure, transparent, and unchangeable. This has given rise to various decentralized platforms, including DeFi, GameFi, and decentralized identities.

3. Ether and Gas:

Ethereum has its very own digital currency, known as “Ether” or simply “ETH.” You can think of it as the fuel that powers the Ethereum network. This token is required to pay transaction fees for transactions done on the Ethereum network. While you can use Ether for peer-to-peer transactions like Bitcoin, its primary role in Ethereum is to facilitate and incentivize operations. Every action on Ethereum, whether simple transfers or complex smart contracts, requires computational effort, quantified as “gas,” and users pay for this using Ether.

4. Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM):

The EVM is the runtime environment for smart contracts in Ethereum. It’s not limited to the Ethereum network; it’s mirrored across every node in the Ethereum ecosystem, boosting decentralization and consensus. This replication enhances security and uniformity across the network. The EVM also promotes interoperability, allowing smart contracts designed for Ethereum to run on compatible blockchains without major modifications, fostering collaboration and expanding the decentralized application landscape.

5. Consensus Mechanisms:

Ethereum initially used Proof of Work (PoW), similar to Bitcoin. However, it transitioned to Proof of Stake (PoS) with Ethereum 2.0 upgrades in 2022. PoS offers scalability and energy efficiency. In PoS, validators replace miners based on the amount of cryptocurrency they “stake” as collateral.

In a nutshell, Ethereum is a versatile platform, not only for digital currency transactions but also as a fertile ground for decentralized, trustless applications and agreements to flourish. Its adaptability and flexibility make it a cornerstone of the modern crypto ecosystem.

6. Ethereum Blockchain

Ethereum blockchain is a decentralized, open-source platform that enables the creation and execution of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Unlike the centralized servers, the Ethereum blockchain operates on a global network of computers (nodes) that work together to record and store transactions securely and transparently.

Ethereum blockchain is the backbone of the Ethereum network.  Every transaction and smart contract have been stored in its blockchain. 

Key features of Ethereum Blockchain: 

1. Decentralization: 

Ethereum operates on a peer-to-peer network of nodes. It makes the network decentralized. The network is not controlled by a single entity. The applications that are built on Ethereum are resistant to censorship and tampering. 

2. Smart Contracts:

The most important feature of the Ethereum network is the ability to create and execute smart contracts. These immutable contracts can be operated autonomously. Once it has deployed, ethereum ensures transparency and trust in the execution process. 

3. Security: 

Ethereum blockchain is secured through cryptographic techniques and mechanisms. It enhances security while reducing energy consumption. 

4. Programmability:

Ethereum is a programmable blockchain. It means developers can write their applications using Ethereum’s programming language. This flexibility allows for the creation of complex applications that can automate a wide range of tasks.

5. Scalability:

Ethereum network allows to process of multiple transactions simultaneously. This is a critical development as Ethereum seeks to handle a growing number of users and applications. Also, it allows developers to create dApps and smart contracts to meet specific requirements, which fosters innovation across various sectors. 

ERC20 Tokens

Apart from Ether, individuals have the freedom to craft and utilize their own digital currencies within the Ethereum ecosystem. One of the popular choices is ERC20 tokens. These tokens are essentially smart contracts that adhere to a particular set of rules. While developers have room to add their own unique features, they need to meet the basic standards when creating these tokens. This standardization is a game-changer, making it simple for digital wallets to handle a wide range of tokens without requiring custom code for each new token that’s introduced.

ERC721 and ERC1155 Tokens

ERC721 and ERC1155 tokens are often referred to as NFTs, which stands for Non-Fungible Tokens. These standards, much like ERC20 for regular tokens, establish a set of essential guidelines for creating NFTs. They bring the same advantages, making it a breeze for wallets and NFT marketplaces to seamlessly work with any NFT collection because they all adhere to either of these two standards.

In conclusion, Ethereum stands as a dynamic force in the world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies, with a fascinating origin and a multifaceted approach to reshaping the digital landscape. It sets itself apart from Bitcoin through its emphasis on smart contracts and decentralized applications, opening doors to a multitude of possibilities. Ethereum’s innovation of its versatile programming language, Solidity, and its role in shaping the NFT market further underscore its crucial role in the crypto ecosystem. As a hub for creativity, innovation, and trustless agreements, Ethereum continues to be a driving force in the ever-evolving world of digital finance and technology.

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