Ethereum: Ethereum investing, programming, mining, blockchains, and smart contracts

Decentralized platforms like Bitcoin changed cryptocurrency forever, but Ethereum is going to change so much more

Before you can successfully mine and invest in Ethereum, you need to understand where it came from, how it works, and how it’s different than Bitcoin
The founder of Ethereum wanted to create a blockchain that could incorporate applications and not just currency. He made Ethereum, which has a more complex code and system of “tokens,” which represent anything of value, not just ethers, which is the fuel that Ethereum uses.
Using Ethereum is similar to other cryptocurrencies, with its system of keys and wallets

If you’ve never used Bitcoin before, this book walks you through what you need to know to set up an Ethereum wallet and start collecting ether. You have a private and public key; the private key is just for your use and lets the blockchain know who you are, while the public key is an address that people can send ether to. The wallet stores the key and gives you access to your ether. There are lots of types of wallets, so you’ll learn about the best options, and how to buy and send ether.
Security is a major issue with Ethereum, so you need to know what risks you’re taking and how to keep your account safe

You can lose your ether in a variety of ways, like by simply losing your private key, or when the exchange you’re using collapses. To keep your ether secure, you need to consider cold storage (keeping your ether offline), choosing the right exchange, and keeping your email super secure. This is stuff you need to know. You can never be too careful when it comes to Ethereum security.
One way you can collect ether is to mine it

Becoming a miner means having certain software, and working on confirming the blockchain transactions in exchange for ether. This chapter goes through everything you need, including:

A good operating system

Mining software like Geth or Genoil

Enough electricity

A good GPU and CPU