High school days are gone!

Right after high school, I bought a bike and trained to ride it safely, avoiding accidents. It was a memorable experience that I’ll never forget.

After using the bike to get around town to earn some bucks, I felt satisfied but wanted something more. So, I decided to dive into Web3.

The first thing I learned in Web3 was ETHEREUM.

Learning ETHEREUM wasn’t difficult for me. I used the same process I followed when learning to ride the bike to understand and explain it to myself.

Now, I’ll explain it to you in the same way.
Learning Ethereum was a lot like riding a bike for the first time.

At first, it might feel unsteady, and the ideas might seem tough, but with some help and practice, you'll soon find your footing and start enjoying the process, just like I did.

This guide will walk you through the essentials of Ethereum, making your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Just like getting familiar with the wheels before riding, you'll need to understand what 𝗯𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗻 is.

When I first started with Ethereum, understanding the blockchain felt like learning to balance on a bike.

It seemed complicated at first, but once I got the hang of it, everything started to make sense.

𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗰:
Picture the blockchain as a long, straight road made up of individual blocks.
Each block is like a page in a public ledger where transactions and data are recorded.

Once a block is added to the chain, it’s permanent and visible to everyone.

This ensures that the data is secure and cannot be altered, just like how your bike path is fixed and stable.

In Ethereum, the blockchain isn’t just a record of transactions; it’s also a platform for running smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps).
(If those terms sound complex, don't worry—I’ll break them down.)

Each block in the chain contains a list of transactions, and these blocks are linked together in a continuous chain.

This connection is what keeps the blockchain secure and resistant to tampering.

The blockchain is the foundation of Ethereum. It ensures that every transaction is transparent and trustworthy.

Just as you depend on a stable bike path for a smooth ride, Ethereum relies on the blockchain to provide a secure and reliable environment for all its activities.

Once I got the basics of the blockchain, smart contracts were the next big step, akin to learning how to pedal efficiently. They were the driving force behind my adventures in Ethereum.

What are Smart Contracts?
Smart contracts are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement written into code.

Think of smart contracts as digital vending machines. You input Ether (Ethereum’s currency), and the machine handles the transaction automatically.

For example, if you want to buy a digital collectible, a smart contract will manage the exchange of funds and ownership without needing a middleman.

How They Work
Imagine you're at a vending machine. You select an item, insert the correct amount of money, and the machine gives you your snack.

In Ethereum, smart contracts operate similarly. They are programmed to carry out actions based on specific conditions.

For instance, a smart contract for a rental agreement might automatically transfer funds to the landlord when the rental period starts.

Benefits of Smart Contracts
They eliminate intermediaries, cut costs, and boost efficiency. Being immutable, they can't be altered after deployment, ensuring contract terms are always honored, much like a vending machine delivering what you paid for.

Great! You’re picking up the terms already.

When I was learning to ride a bike, I needed a helmet—something essential for safety.

In Web3, this is similar to having a secure place to store your Ether. That's where digital wallets come in.

What is a Digital Wallet?
A digital wallet is where you securely store your Ether and other digital assets. Think of it as a highly secure virtual purse or safe.

Just like you wouldn’t ride a bike without a helmet, you shouldn’t dive into Ethereum without a secure wallet.

Types of Wallets

1. Hot Wallets
These are online wallets, accessible via web applications or mobile apps. They are convenient for quick transactions and daily use. Think of them as a wallet you carry in your pocket—always ready but slightly less secure because they’re connected to the internet.
Examples include MetaMask and Trust Wallet.

Advantages

Ease of Access: Ideal for frequent transactions.

User-Friendly: Easy to set up and use.

Disadvantages

Security Risks: Vulnerable to hacking and phishing attacks.

2. Cold Wallets:

These are offline storage solutions, like hardware wallets or paper wallets. They are like a safe stored in a vault, offering higher security for long-term storage. Examples include Ledger Nano S, Ledger Nano X, and Trezor.

Advantages

Enhanced Security: Protects assets from online threats.

Long-Term Storage: Ideal for holding large amounts of Ether or other assets safely.

Disadvantages

Less Convenient: Not ideal for frequent transactions.

Initial Setup Required: May require more setup and understanding.

Setting Up Your Wallet:
1. Choose Your Wallet: Decide whether you want a hot or cold wallet based on your needs. For beginners, a hot wallet is often sufficient for daily transactions and exploration of DApps.

2. Download or Purchase: For hot wallets, download the app from a trusted source. For cold wallets, purchase from a reputable manufacturer.

3. Create and Secure Your Wallet: Follow the setup instructions to create your wallet. You’ll receive a recovery phrase—write it down and store it securely. This phrase is crucial for recovering your wallet if you lose access.

4. Add Funds: Transfer Ether from an exchange or another wallet into your new wallet. Make sure to verify the transaction details to avoid mistakes.

Maintaining your wallet security is very important.

Backup Your Wallet: Regularly backup your wallet’s recovery phrase and private keys. Store backups in a safe place, separate from your wallet.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):For added security, use 2FA if your wallet supports it.

Be Wary of Phishing Scams: Only use official wallet applications and websites.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing your wallet details to unverified sources.

Speaking of wallet security, let me share an experience that nearly cost me everything. I once got a message from someone pretending to be a support representative, asking for my wallet’s private key to fix an “issue.”

Just as I was about to hand it over, a friend of mine warned me that it was a scam. That close call taught me to be extra cautious with my wallet’s security.

After that experience, I became more interested in securing my digital identity on Web3, and that’s when I discovered ENS (Ethereum Name Service).

What is ENS?
ENS is like having a custom license plate for your bike. Instead of a long serial number, you get something easy to remember, like “myname.bike.”

Similarly, ENS lets you register a simple name like “myname.eth” for your Ethereum wallet, making transactions easier and more personalized.

Benefits of ENS
ENS simplifies transactions with a unique, easy-to-remember name, creating a consistent identity across DApps.

It also enhances security by reducing the risk of phishing attacks.
Once I had my wallet set up and secured with an ENS(serbinance.base.eth), diving into DApps felt like exploring a new amusement park.

Each DApp was a different ride or attraction waiting for me to discover.

What are DApps?
DApps are like various bike routes—each offers different experiences, from games to financial services, built on the Ethereum blockchain. They work independently but rely on the blockchain for transparency and security.

They offer diverse functions with transparency and security, operating without central control to boost trust.

Ethereum has greatly benefited the crypto space, with its potential to drive social change and foster global collaboration.
Just like a global bike-sharing program,

Ethereum provides access to resources and opportunities for all. Platforms like Gitcoin allow anyone to support open-source projects.

It's facilitates direct donations to charitable causes, bypassing traditional financial systems.

As you continue to use Ethereum, you’ll become more familiar with it, and your confidence will grow. Over time, using Ethereum will feel as natural as riding a bike.

Ethereum is constantly evolving, and there's always something new to learn.

One way to stay informed is by reading online articles, such as those on Investopedia, which has been a great resource for me. I’m confident it will be helpful for you too.

Practice makes perfect, so start by doing small transactions on the Ethereum blockchain.

Experiment with different DApps and smart contracts to build experience, just like you would perfect your bike ride.
Before you finish your day, remember to protect your assets.
Just as I took care of my bike and helmet, I make sure to keep my digital wallet safe.

Keep exploring, keep learning, and who knows where this journey might take you.

Welcome to Ethereum. 🫡