ERC-20 Token Standard Explained
When working with ERC-20, a widely used token interface on the Ethereum blockchain that defines how tokens can be transferred and accessed. Also known as Ethereum Request for Comment 20, it forms the backbone of most crypto projects you see today.
Ethereum itself is the platform that hosts ERC-20 tokens. Ethereum, a public, permissionless blockchain that enables developers to run decentralized applications ETH provides the environment where smart contracts live. These contracts are the code that enforces the ERC-20 rules. Smart contracts, self‑executing programs on a blockchain that automatically enforce agreements programmatic contracts are written in Solidity and must implement functions like transfer and balanceOf to be ERC‑20 compliant.
Key Concepts Around ERC-20
Token standards are a set of conventions that make tokens interoperable. Token standards, formal specifications that define how tokens behave on a blockchain ERC specifications include ERC‑20, ERC‑721 (NFTs), and newer upgrades like ERC‑777. By adhering to a standard, a token can be listed on any exchange that supports the protocol, used in DeFi applications, or integrated into wallets without extra code.
DeFi (decentralized finance) leans heavily on ERC‑20 because it allows seamless swapping, lending, and staking. Projects reviewed on Ledger Ultra often mention how an ERC‑20 token's liquidity, fee structure, and tokenomics affect its performance on platforms like Uniswap or Aave. Understanding the relationship between ERC‑20 and DeFi helps you evaluate exchange reviews, airdrop opportunities, and market analysis pieces that appear in the list below.
Identifying the right ERC‑20 token starts with checking its smart contract audit, the Ethereum network’s gas fees, and the token’s role within a broader ecosystem. Whether you’re reading a detailed exchange review, an airdrop guide, or a deep‑dive into crypto‑backed stablecoins, the concepts above will keep you anchored.
Now that you have the basic building blocks—ERC‑20, Ethereum, smart contracts, token standards, and DeFi—you can dive into the curated articles below. They cover everything from exchange safety checks to airdrop mechanics, giving you actionable insights and real‑world examples of ERC‑20 in action.