Ethereum
The original smart contract platform. Home to DeFi, NFTs, and the largest developer ecosystem. Higher fees but maximum security and composability.
L1
ETH
Chain ID: 1
Network Specifications
- Consensus
- Proof of Stake
- Block Time
- ~12 seconds
- Typical Gas Cost
- $1-50+
- Native Token
- ETH
Best For
High-value DeFi, NFTs, and maximum security
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ethereum used for?+
Ethereum is a L1 blockchain used for decentralized applications, token transfers, and smart contracts. Different users choose Ethereum for different reasons — check the "Best For" section above to see where it excels compared to other networks.
How much does it cost to use Ethereum?+
Typical transaction fees on Ethereum are $1-50+. Fees vary based on network congestion and transaction complexity. Simple transfers cost less than smart contract interactions like swaps or mints. Use our Gas Fee Estimator tool for current estimates.
Which wallets work with Ethereum?+
Multiple wallets support Ethereum — see the "Compatible Wallets" section above for the full list. For EVM-compatible chains, MetaMask and Rabby are popular choices. Check our Wallet Compatibility Checker for detailed comparisons.
Is Ethereum secure?+
Ethereum uses Proof of Stake for security. As a Layer 1 chain, it has its own validator set and security model. No blockchain is immune to bugs or attacks, but Ethereum has an established track record.
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