What is an Ethereum Address?

Every crypto wallet contains an address list that lets users transfer virtual assets. This address plays a crucial role in safeguarding the transmission of crypto across blockchain networks. Without them, you can not securely send and receive funds from others. 

All blockchain networks have their unique set of addresses and in this article, we will focus on the Ethereum address.

If you are a newbie or an experienced user looking to enhance your understanding of Ethereum’s address system, this article will provide you with the knowledge you need to navigate the Ethereum network. 

Understanding the Ethereum Address

Before explaining the Ethereum address, it is essential to understand the concept of an Ethereum wallet.

Ethereum wallets are applications that allow users to store, manage, and interact with assets on the Ethereum Blockchain. These wallets are controlled by private seed phrases that allow users to spend and secure their funds. 

The seed phrases are only known to the wallet’s creator and must not be shared with others. Ethereum wallets vary widely in their features. While certain wallets allow users to send only ETH between users, others offer additional functionalities such as the ability to create smart contracts.

What then is an Ethereum Address?

The Ethereum address is a unique string of 42 characters that serves as a destination for sending and receiving cryptocurrencies and digital assets.

Every Ethereum address is usually seen to start with the character “0x”. The address is similar to your bank account number, and it is safe to share it with anyone. It primarily serves as your public address for receiving funds on the Ethereum network.

Types of Ethereum Address

There are 2 types of Ethereum addresses, they are:

• Eternally-owned account (EOA): this address is controlled and owned by the owner of the Ethereum wallet. The EOAs are usually associated with private keys allowing users to exercise the authority to send, receive, and manage their Ether assets.
• Contract Address: This is usually the address that hosts a collection of codes on the Ethereum Blockchain. It serves as the destination for interacting with a specific smart contract, allowing users to send transactions, execute functions, or interact with the contract’s code on the Ethereum network.  The contract address is usually controlled by the network and can only send transactions in response to receiving a transaction.

How to use the Ethereum Address

Although the language used by various apps may vary, the procedure of transferring or receiving Ethereum assets should be the same.

When receiving ETH

• Open your wallet app.
• Click on the “Receive” button.
• Copy your Ethereum address to the clipboard.
• Provide the sender with your receiving Ethereum address.

When sending Eth

• Open your wallet app.
• Get the receiving address of the person you are sending it to. Ensure you are connected to the same network as the recipient.
• Click on the “Send” button.
• Enter the receiving address or scan a QR code with your camera.
• Ensure that your wallet has sufficient ETH to cover the transaction fee, which varies depending on the network conditions.
• Confirm the transaction.

If you are interested in knowing more about how Ethereum works then you can read up more on what Ethereum is and how you can buy it.

Wrapping up

Avoid typing any Ethereum address manually. You can copy the address or decide to scan the QR code. One of the downsides of transferring crypto assets is that there’s no room for rectifying errors. You can not report to a bank to get your funds back if you make any mistake when sending out your wallet address. So, kindly exercise care when trying to transfer or receive funds. Always make sure that the address you are sharing links with the crypto token you want to receive to prevent loss of funds.