Results for “ERC vs EIP”

ERC

An ERC (Ethereum Request for Comments) is a kind of EIP that sets an application-level standard: a shared interface for tokens, wallets or contracts, such as ERC-20 for interchangeable tokens. ERCs do not change Ethereum's rules; contracts and apps choose to follow them.

What it means for you. An ERC label on a token tells you which functions it promises, so wallets and apps know how to show and move it. It does not tell you the token is honest: the contract behind the interface can still add fees, freezes or owner powers that the label does not reveal.

Sources: ethereum.org glossary, EIP-1: EIP Purpose and Guidelines, ERC-2612: Permit extension for EIP-20 signed approvals · checked 4 October 2026

EIP

An EIP (Ethereum Improvement Proposal) is a public design document that proposes a new feature, rule or standard for Ethereum. Each one has a number, authors and a status, and changes to the core protocol take effect only when client software implements them in a network upgrade.

What it means for you. When a wallet or app says it follows 'EIP-something', you can read that exact document at eips.ethereum.org and check its status. A Draft or Review EIP can still change; only a Final one is fixed. An EIP number on its own does not mean a feature is live on the network.

Sources: EIP-1: EIP Purpose and Guidelines, ethereum.org: Ethereum development standards · checked 4 October 2026