Crypto Basics

Clear explanations of the core ideas behind crypto. · 14 articles

Zero-Knowledge Proofs Explained Simply

A zero knowledge proof lets you prove something is true without revealing why. Learn how ZK proofs work, SNARKs vs STARKs, and their uses in crypto.

Oct 12, 2026 · 4 min read

Rollups Explained: Optimistic vs Zero-Knowledge

Rollups run transactions off the main chain and post data back to it. Learn how optimistic and zero-knowledge rollups differ, and the risks that remain.

Oct 11, 2026 · 5 min read

What Are Layer 1 and Layer 2 Blockchains?

Layer 1 vs layer 2 explained: what base blockchains and scaling networks are, how rollups work, the trade-offs in security and fees, and the risks to watch.

Oct 10, 2026 · 5 min read

What Is Gas in Ethereum?

Ethereum gas measures the computing work a transaction needs. Learn how gas, gwei, base fees and tips work, why fees change, and how to avoid overpaying.

Oct 9, 2026 · 5 min read

What Is a Seed Phrase?

A seed phrase is the master key to your crypto wallet. Learn how 12- and 24-word recovery phrases work, how to store one safely and the scams that target it.

Oct 8, 2026 · 4 min read

Public Key vs Private Key Explained

A private key proves you own your crypto; a public key lets others verify it. Learn how the key pair works, how addresses are made and how to keep keys safe.

Oct 7, 2026 · 5 min read

What Is a Crypto Wallet?

What a crypto wallet is, how keys and addresses work, the main wallet types (hot, cold, custodial) and the security steps every beginner should follow.

Oct 6, 2026 · 4 min read

Coins vs Tokens: What's the Difference?

Coin vs token explained: how native coins and tokens differ, how each is created, why it matters for fees and safety, and how to avoid fake token copies.

Oct 5, 2026 · 4 min read

What Is a Smart Contract?

What is a smart contract? Learn how self-executing blockchain programs work, what they power, their limits and risks, and how to check one before you use it.

Oct 4, 2026 · 5 min read

Proof of Stake Explained

Proof of stake secures a blockchain with locked-up tokens instead of mining. Learn how validators, rewards and slashing work, plus the main trade-offs.

Oct 3, 2026 · 5 min read

Proof of Work Explained

Proof of work explained simply: how mining secures blockchains like Bitcoin, why it uses energy, how difficulty adjusts, and its main risks and criticisms.

Oct 3, 2026 · 5 min read

What Is Bitcoin Mining?

Bitcoin mining is how new blocks are added and new bitcoin is issued. Learn how proof of work, difficulty, rewards and pools work, plus the costs and risks.

Oct 3, 2026 · 5 min read

What Is a Blockchain and How Does It Work?

What is blockchain? A plain-English guide to blocks, hashes, nodes and consensus, with what blockchains are good at, where they fall short and key risks.

Oct 3, 2026 · 5 min read

What Is Cryptocurrency? A Clear Beginner's Guide

What is cryptocurrency? A plain-English guide to how crypto works, what blockchains and wallets do, the main types of coins, and the real risks to know.

Oct 3, 2026 · 5 min read