I would be happy to help me understand how the Ethereum blockchain was created and if you can start with only one node.
How did Ethereum get the first 50 bitcoins?
The creation of the Ethereum network was a « mining » procedure, which is a key part of maintaining the decentralized and secure nature of the blockchain. Ethereum creator, Vitalik Butterin, explained that mining is needed to validate network transactions and to create new units of ether (the native cryptocurrency).
Computers are used for Mining Ethereum with computer graphical processing units (GPU) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC). These special hardware tools solve the complex mathematical problems designed by Vitalik Buterin itself.
The first block of the Ethereum network was mined in 2016 and a new ether unit was rewarded to solve these mathematical problems. This process is repeated on all 14 blocks or « Ganesha » to keep the Ethereum network safe and decentralized.
Can I start the Ethereum system with only one node (computer)?
Theoretically, it is possible to start the Ethereum network from scratch using only one computer (node), but for several reasons it is not practical or recommended:
- Scalability: Even with a single node, the number of transactions per second would be incredibly low, making it difficult to handle any load.
- Safety: Mining requires significant calculation and energy to effectively solve mathematical problems. Only a computer is unlikely to be sustained by the block without endangering security.
- Interoperability: To cooperate with other Ethereum nodes or applications, you must be able to communicate safely over a network. This is where the role of a central authority (as a node) is crucial.
What if there was only a node?
Even if you had access to a single computer, here’s what would happen:
- No transaction: Without other nodes, it would not be possible to validate and add the blocks to the blockchain.
- No central power:
Without other nodes or central authority, it would be impossible to provide or maintain the integrity of the data.
- No reward: The block reward encourages miners to effectively solve mathematical problems. Only a node cannot work with the reward system.
In summary, if you start the Ethereum network from scratch using a single computer, this may seem feasible, not practical or secure in its current form. The decentralized nature of blockchain technology relies on cooperation and coordination of nodes around the world, which makes Ethereum truly remarkable.