How to Get Started in Web3: A Beginner's Guide

Web3 promises to be the next phase of the internet. But what exactly is Web3, and how can you get started? This guide will walk you through the basics and get you set up in no time.

1. What is Web3 and How Does It Work?

Web3 is the new era of the internet, built on blockchain technology. Unlike the current internet (often referred to as Web2), where platforms control user data and interactions, Web3 promises a decentralized approach. The core aspects of it are:

• Users have control over their own data and have true ownership over their assets.
• Blockchains power many transactions and applications.
• Digital currencies play a significant role and allow for decentralized transactions.

This allows for novel ways to interact with applications (so-called smart contracts) and makes it easier for you to buy, sell and trade assets.

This article will cover Ethereum wallets. It will focus on helping you get started within that ecosystem. While there are other blockchains like Tezos, Bitcoin, Solana and more, the Ethereum network is the most common way to start in web3.

2. Get a Crypto Wallet

Your gateway to Web3 is a (non-custodial) crypto wallet. It lets you sign in to blockchain apps, approve transactions and receive funds. 

• Choose a provider: There are many options, but an easy one to start with is Fire.
• Install: Some are browser extensions (like Fire), while others are mobile apps. Follow the steps to set up the wallet.
• Secure: If you’re using an older wallet type, always save backup phrases or passwords; they're essential for accessing your funds. And with most wallet providers, you lose access to your funds forever if you lose them.

3. Fund Your Wallet

With a wallet in place, you'll need to buy some Ether. This is the native currency of the Ethereum network. It’s what you’ll use to pay gas fees and make transactions.

• Buy on crypto platforms: Sites like Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken let you purchase Ether such as Ethereum (ETH), which is widely used in Web3. You can then send the ether from an exchange to your wallet address.
• Direct purchase in wallet: Many wallets allow you to buy crypto directly using your credit card, streamlining the process.

4. Dive into Web3 Websites

With a funded wallet, you can get started in web3! While it’s a big decentralized internet out there, here are a few starting points. Feel free to click the links to read our guides on these topics:

Use DeFi

DeFi, or "Decentralized Finance", lets you handle money without traditional banks:

• Lend & Earn: Platforms like Compound and Aave let you lend your crypto to earn interest.
• Trade: With DEXs (Decentralized Exchanges) like Uniswap, trade crypto without a central platform.

Explore NFTs

NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens, are unique digital assets:

• Buy, sell, create: Use a marketplace to collect, create and sell digital collectibles, artwork and more. A good place to start is mint.fun, which lists ongoing NFT mints, many of which are free!

Earn Rewards on Your Crypto

Make your crypto work for you:

• Staking: You can ‘stake’ your ether, meaning locking it up to get rewards.
• Yield Farming: Engage with DeFi protocols to earn returns.

Discover More!

Web3 isn't just about finance:

• Games: Play and earn in games like Axie Infinity.
• Social: Platforms like Lenster and Farcaster offer decentralized social experiences.

Stepping into Web3 might seem overwhelming, but with a bit of guidance and exploration, you'll find it's an exciting evolution of the internet. Whether trading art, playing games, or simply exploring, Web3 offers a world of decentralized possibilities!