Ethereum overview
Ethereum is the leading platform for running smart contracts and switched to proof of stake in 2022. Validators stake ETH to secure the network and earn rewards, and it serves as the foundation for many scaling solutions, including Polygon.
What Ethereum does
Ethereum is the network that runs smart contracts. A large share of tokens, decentralized exchanges, lending markets and NFTs started here, and Polygon was built so apps can use the same development model.
If bitcoin is mainly a ledger for moving value, Ethereum is closer to a computer that runs programs on top of a ledger.
Validation after 2022
In 2022, The Merge moved Ethereum from proof of work to proof of stake. Validators deposit ETH, propose blocks or attest to other validators' blocks, and earn rewards. Breaking the rules can cost part of the deposit.
Running a validator directly takes 32 ETH and a server that stays online. People who want to participate with less use a staking service. The service handles operations and custody for the term. You choose the amount and the lock.
Staking ETH on 폴리젠
Rewards accrue in ETH at the rate shown when you applied. Withdrawal opens only after the term. Deposits are accepted on Ethereum mainnet only.
- ETH on Polygon, Arbitrum, Base or another network may never show up at this deposit address.
- Sending an ERC-20 token is not the same as sending ETH itself.
- A network upgrade or congestion can delay deposit confirmation.
Risks worth naming
A wide ecosystem means many uses, not a stable price. More ETH can still be worth less in fiat if the price falls harder than the reward. While the term runs, the operator holds the assets, so you take operational risk as well as protocol risk.
This information is for reference only and is not investment advice.