Understanding the ERC20 Chain and Its Token Creation Process

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The ERC20 chain is a popular blockchain platform that has enabled the creation of thousands of tokens. It was first introduced in 2017 by a team of developers who wanted to create a standard for token creation.

The ERC20 standard is a set of rules that govern how tokens are created and interact with the Ethereum network. This standard was designed to make it easy for developers to create their own tokens.

One of the key benefits of the ERC20 chain is its ability to facilitate token creation. According to the article, the ERC20 standard provides a set of functions that must be implemented by any token that wants to be compatible with the Ethereum network. These functions include token name, symbol, and total supply.

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Creating and Deploying Tokens

Creating an ERC20 token involves several steps, including coding, deploying, and verifying your token on the Ethereum Blockchain.

To start, you'll need to choose a contract name and token symbol, and decide on the divisibility of your token, denoted by decimals, which is usually 18.

Broaden your view: Crypto Token Development

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Determine your token's total supply and initialize it in the contract, and use mappings to track token balances and allowances.

You'll need to deploy your contract to the Ethereum testnet using test ETH, and use an IDE like Ethereum Remix and a library like OpenZeppelin for secure and efficient contract creation.

Here are the key steps to deploy your token:

  • Deploy your contract to the Ethereum testnet using test ETH.
  • Use an IDE like Ethereum Remix and a library like OpenZeppelin for secure and efficient contract creation.

Creating an ERC20 token requires a careful approach, ensuring adherence to the ERC20 standard for seamless integration into the Ethereum ecosystem.

To deploy your token, navigate to the “digital assets” selection in the left panel and click “tokens”, then select the Signing Account as the node you created in the previous step.

Give your token a name and symbol along with a supply, and select KaleidoERC20MintableBurnable as the template to use.

Here are the mandatory functions that your ERC20 token contract must implement:

  • totalSupply
  • balanceOf
  • transfer
  • transferFrom
  • approve
  • allowance

Optional but recommended functions include name, symbol, and decimals.

A token is a representation of an on-chain or off-chain asset, and the token page shows information such as price, total supply, holders, transfers and social links.

Discover more: Erc 20 Tokens List

Token Standards and Variations

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The ERC-20 standard has paved the way for other technical standards on Ethereum, each with its own unique functionality.

ERC-20 has inspired the creation of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) through ERC-721, which allows for the development of unique digital assets.

ERC-1400 provides a unified framework for developing securities tokens, offering a standardized approach to token creation.

ERC-223 enables transaction fees to be paid in the same token as the one being used, eliminating the need to pay fees in ETH.

ERC-777 provides enhancements to ERC-20 through hooks, which enable the sending of tokens and the notification of contracts in one transaction. However, it's more susceptible to cyber-attacks and difficult to implement, which is why most Ethereum developers still prefer the ERC-20 standard.

Here's a brief overview of the different ERC standards:

  • ERC-721: Non-fungible tokens (NFTs)
  • ERC-1400: Securities tokens
  • ERC-223: Pay transaction fees in the same token as the one being used
  • ERC-777: Enhancements to ERC-20 with hooks for sending tokens and notifying contracts

Tracker

The Tracker page is a valuable resource for keeping tabs on ERC-20 tokens on Ethereum. It tracks key metrics, but only lists tokens with a Blue Checkmark.

A fresh viewpoint: Best Erc20 Tokens

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Tokens with a Blue Checkmark have undergone a verification process, ensuring their legitimacy and trustworthiness. This feature is explained in more detail in the Knowledge Base.

The Tracker page provides a convenient way to monitor the performance of various ERC-20 tokens. It's a great tool for investors and developers alike.

Here are some examples of successful ERC-20 tokens that have been tracked on the page:

  • Uniswap (UNI)
  • ApeCoin (APE)
  • Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC)
  • Chainlink (LINK)

These tokens have achieved significant success due to their compliance with the ERC-20 standard, ensuring compatibility and interoperability across various Blockchain applications and services.

Standards and Variations

ERC-20 has inspired a range of technical standards on Ethereum, each with its own unique features. ERC-20's flexibility has led to the development of more specialized standards.

ERC-721 is one such standard, designed to create non-fungible tokens (NFTs), which are unique digital assets. These NFTs can represent anything from art to collectibles.

ERC-1400 provides a unified framework for developing securities tokens, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. This standard is particularly useful for companies looking to issue security tokens.

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ERC-223 allows for transaction fees to be paid in the same token as the one being used, rather than paying fees in ETH. This can simplify the process of conducting transactions.

ERC-777 provides enhancements to ERC-20 through hooks, enabling the sending of tokens and the notification of contracts in one transaction. However, its susceptibility to cyber-attacks and complexity make it less popular than ERC-20.

Here are some key differences between ERC-20 and its variations:

Core Functions of Standards

The Core Functions of Standards are what make token standards so powerful. They enable tokens to perform a range of functions, including tracking the total amount of tokens available.

The total amount of tokens available is a crucial piece of information, and the ERC-20 Token Standards make it easily accessible. This allows users to see how many tokens are in circulation.

The Balance Of function provides a snapshot of the current financial standing of an account owner's wallet. This is essential for users to keep track of their token holdings.

Credit: youtube.com, A Quick Guide to Token Standards ♦️

Tokens can be transferred from one address to another using the Transfer function, which allows users to send a specified amount of tokens to a given address.

The Transfer From function is similar to Transfer, but it receives tokens from a specified address rather than sending them. This function is useful in scenarios where tokens need to be moved from one address to another.

The Approve function is a safeguard that allows users to withdraw a specific number of tokens from an account that has been specified. This is a critical function for users who need to manage their token holdings.

The Allowance function is responsible for repaying a predetermined quantity of tokens from the spender to the owner. This function is essential for maintaining the integrity of token transactions.

Here are the core functions of the ERC-20 Token Standards:

  • Total Amount: Tracks the total supply of tokens available.
  • Balance Of: Provides data regarding the current financial standing of the owner’s account.
  • Transfer: Sends a specified amount of tokens to a given address.
  • Transfer From: Moves tokens from one address to another.
  • Approve: Allows users to withdraw a specific number of tokens from an account.
  • Allowance: Repays a predetermined quantity of tokens from the spender to the owner.

These functions enable tokens to initiate transfer and validation actions, making the ERC-20 Token Standards a robust and reliable choice for token development.

Use Cases and Growth

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ERC-20 tokens have seen widespread adoption across various sectors due to their standardized framework. This standardization allows for seamless integration with a myriad of wallets, exchanges, and services, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth in the crypto space.

Some of the top ERC-20 tokens by market capitalization include Polygon (MATIC) with $5.34 billion, Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) with $4.77 billion, and DAI (DAI) with $4.66 billion.

The growth of ERC-20 tokens has led to a large increase in transaction volume over the last few years, particularly between 2020 and 2021. As of May 2023, all-time inflows are more than $27 trillion.

ERC-20 tokens have various use cases, including stablecoins, governance tokens, utility tokens, and in-game currencies. For example, USD Coin (USDC) is a stablecoin pegged to traditional currencies, offering price stability in the volatile crypto market.

Here are some of the top ERC-20 tokens by market capitalization:

Advantages and Benefits

The ERC-20 standard has been a game-changer for the Ethereum Blockchain, enabling widespread adoption across various sectors.

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ERC-20 tokens have seen significant growth due to their standardized framework, allowing for seamless integration with a myriad of wallets, exchanges, and services.

This standardization has fostered an environment conducive to innovation and growth in the crypto space, making it easier for developers to create and manage tokens.

ERC-20 tokens have various use cases, including stablecoins, governance tokens, utility tokens, asset-backed tokens, in-game currencies and items, virtual worlds and metaverse platforms, and decentralized finance (DeFi) applications.

Here are some of the key benefits of ERC-20 tokens:

  • Interoperability: ERC-20 tokens can be easily exchanged with one another, making them highly versatile and useful for a wide range of applications.
  • Security: ERC-20 tokens inherit the security features of the Ethereum Blockchain, including immutability, transparency, and decentralization.
  • Customizability: Developers can create their own ERC-20 tokens and tailor them to their specific needs.
  • Transparency: All transactions involving ERC-20 tokens are recorded on the Ethereum Blockchain, making it easy to verify the authenticity of a transaction.
  • Liquidity: ERC-20 tokens are highly liquid, making them a popular choice for investors and traders who are looking to profit from the volatility of the cryptocurrency market.
  • Ease of use: ERC-20 tokens can be easily created and managed using a variety of tools and platforms.

ERC-20 tokens also help boost liquidity by removing conversion barriers and incentivizing active participation within any application, fueling Ethereum ecosystem productivity and growth.

Use Cases and Growth

The ERC-20 standard has become a fundamental component of the Ethereum Blockchain, with widespread adoption across various sectors.

ERC-20 tokens have seen significant growth in market capitalization, with top tokens like Polygon (MATIC) and Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) boasting market caps of over $5 billion and $4.77 billion, respectively.

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The use cases for ERC-20 tokens are diverse and innovative, including stablecoins like USD Coin (USDC), governance tokens like Maker (MKR), and utility tokens like the Basic Attention Token (BAT).

In-game currencies and items are another popular use case for ERC-20 tokens, streamlining the management of virtual economies in the gaming industry.

Decentralized finance (DeFi) applications like Aave (AAVE) also utilize ERC-20 tokens as both governance and utility tokens.

Here are some key statistics on the growth of ERC-20 tokens:

The growth of ERC-20 tokens has been driven by their standardized framework, which ensures compatibility and interoperability across various Blockchain applications and services.

The success of ERC-20 tokens can be attributed to their ability to facilitate decentralized trading, create digital economies in virtual worlds, and promote innovation and growth in the crypto space.

As of May 2023, all-time inflows of ERC-20 tokens are more than $27 trillion, highlighting the significant impact of these tokens on the Blockchain ecosystem.

Ethereum and ERC20

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Ethereum is a decentralized network that anyone can use and build upon, with the ability to store tokens, artwork, and digital documents on the Blockchain.

The Ethereum network is made up of millions of separate computers connected to function as a single entity, a giant supercomputer that can be used for any job.

This supercomputer can be "hired" by paying "gas" in the form of Ether, the native token for Ethereum.

Ethereum's Driving Force

Ethereum's driving force is the ERC-20 standard, which allows users to participate in transformative business opportunities and innovative projects without substantial obstacles.

The ERC-20 standard dramatically boosted the success of the developer community by providing technical guidelines for Ethereum token creation.

This standard has also increased participation in the blockchain industry as a whole, making it easier for users to engage with various projects and value transfer methods.

The ERC-20 standard has been a game-changer for Ethereum, enabling developers to create tokens and projects with ease, and users to participate in the blockchain industry without significant hurdles.

Ethereum

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Ethereum is a decentralized network that anyone can use and build upon.

It's like a virtual set of Lego blocks that's been distributed to everyone on the planet, allowing us to bring our digital fantasies and possibilities to life.

On the Ethereum network, you can store tokens, artwork, decentralized applications, digital documents, and just about anything else imaginable on the Blockchain.

Ethereum is made up of millions of separate computers that are all connected to function as a single entity, a giant supercomputer.

This massive computational power can be "hired" by paying "gas" in the form of Ether, the native token for Ethereum (ETH).

Gas Fee

The gas fee is the price you pay to execute a transaction or contract on the Ethereum Blockchain. It's measured in tiny fractions of ether cryptocurrency, known as gwei or nanoeth.

To process a transaction, miners on the web need to be paid a certain amount of gas, which is decided by supply and demand. This means that if the gas price doesn't meet their threshold, they can choose not to process the transaction.

Credit: youtube.com, Gas Now (ETH/ERC20 Gas Fee Forecaster)

The price of gas is determined by the market, with miners and network users negotiating the price of processing power. This creates a dynamic system where the gas price can fluctuate based on demand and supply.

Miners have the power to decline transactions if the gas price doesn't meet their requirements, which can affect the success of a transaction. This is why it's essential to consider the gas fee when executing transactions on the Ethereum Blockchain.

Additional reading: Power Chains

Security and Audits

Security and Audits are crucial when working with ERC20 chains. Understanding the security implications of each function is essential to prevent potential risks.

Consider professional audits for contracts handling real value to ensure their integrity. This is especially important when dealing with sensitive information or financial transactions.

Seek guidance from experienced developers or communities if you're new to smart contract development. They can provide valuable insights and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

  • Understand the security implications of each function.
  • Consider professional audits for contracts handling real value.
  • Seek guidance from experienced developers or communities.

Token Management

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Token Management is crucial for the success of your ERC20 token. It's a standard for Fungible Tokens on Ethereum, meaning each token is exactly the same in type and value.

To ensure seamless integration into the Ethereum ecosystem, your token must adhere to the ERC20 standard. This standard has become crucial in the Ethereum ecosystem, allowing the creation of a wide range of assets and utilities, such as collateral for loans, governance tokens, and interest-bearing assets.

Before deploying your token, it's essential to test it thoroughly. Deploy your contract to the Ethereum testnet using test ETH. This will help you identify any issues before releasing your token to the public.

Here's a step-by-step guide to deploying your ERC20 token:

  • Deploy your contract to the Ethereum testnet using test ETH.
  • Use an IDE like Ethereum Remix and a library like OpenZeppelin for secure and efficient contract creation.
  • OpenZeppelin provides a secure, standard-compliant ERC20 contract base, reducing the need to write the entire ERC20 interface from scratch.

After deploying your token, it's essential to regularly update and maintain your contract as needed. Once your token is tested, you can deploy it on the Ethereum mainnet.

ERC20 tokens are increasingly integral to the burgeoning decentralized finance (DeFi) sector, thanks to their compatibility with Ethereum's Blockchain.

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Integration with DeFi platforms is transforming the landscape of open and accessible financial systems. This is a game-changer for anyone looking to participate in the DeFi space.

Cross-chain compatibility and Layer 2 solutions are being developed to enhance interoperability between different Blockchain networks and reduce transaction fees and times. This is a major step forward for the entire Blockchain ecosystem.

The tokenization of real-world assets like real estate, artwork, and commodities is an intriguing trend that could revolutionize how we invest in, trade, and manage physical assets. This offers more liquidity and accessibility to diverse markets.

Regulatory developments are leading to increased adoption of ERC20 tokens by institutional investors, which will likely result in more professionally managed funds and financial products based on these coins.

Uniswap (UNI) is a decentralized exchange that facilitates peer-to-peer token swaps, bypassing the need for centralized intermediaries.

ApeCoin (APE) acts as a utility and governance token for the Bored Ape Yacht Club ecosystem, a popular profile picture (PFP) NFT collection.

Credit: youtube.com, What are ERC Tokens? ERC20, ERC721 Explained For Beginners

Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) is an ERC-20 token backed 1:1 by Bitcoin, enhancing liquidity in DeFi applications by allowing Bitcoin to be used as collateral.

Chainlink (LINK) is a utility token used in the decentralized oracle network, enabling smart contracts to securely interact with external data sources and systems.

These tokens showcase the versatility and broad application scope of the ERC-20 standard, making them essential in many decentralized applications.

Additional reading: 1 Kilo Cuban Link Chain

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Coinbase ERC-20?

Coinbase supports ERC-20 tokens, allowing users to send and receive them through Coinbase Wallet. ERC-20 tokens are a type of digital asset supported by Coinbase.

George Murphy

Senior Assigning Editor

George Murphy serves as a seasoned Assigning Editor, overseeing a wide range of financial articles. His expertise lies in high-frequency trading strategies, where he provides in-depth analysis and insights to his readers. Under his guidance, the publication has garnered recognition for its authoritative and forward-looking coverage in the financial sector.

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