1. What Is an Ethereum Explorer?

Image: https://etherscan.io/
An Ethereum explorer is an online tool that enables users to view transactions, wallet activity, and smart contract details on the Ethereum blockchain. With an Ethereum explorer, you can easily check transaction status, monitor wallet balances, verify smart contracts, and access transparent, secure blockchain data. Leading platforms in this category include Etherscan and Etherchain.
2. Core Features of an Ethereum Explorer
- Transaction Lookup: Enter a transaction hash to see the sender, recipient, gas fee, and current transaction status.
- Address Lookup: Input an Ethereum address to display the balance, transaction history, and token holdings.
- Contract Lookup: Provide a contract address to review the contract’s source code, transaction records, and event logs.
- Gas Fee Tracking: Monitor real-time gas fees across the network to choose the optimal time for submitting transactions.
- Token Information: Look up ERC-20 or ERC-721 token transfers and holder addresses.
3. How to Query Transactions and Contract Details
- Go to an Ethereum explorer website such as Etherscan.
- Enter a transaction hash, wallet address, or contract address in the search field.
- The explorer displays transaction status, timestamp, gas fee, and related token details.
- For smart contracts, you can additionally view contract events and source code verification status.
4. Latest Points Program: Etherscan Points

Image: https://etherscan.io/points
On August 15, 2025 (UTC), Etherscan officially launched the Etherscan Points program, allowing users to earn and redeem rewards by engaging in platform activities.
Ways to earn OG Points include:
- Daily Check-in: Log in to Etherscan each day and complete check-in to receive point rewards.
- Complete Quizzes: Take official quizzes and answer correctly to earn points.
- Share Etherscan Moments: Share Etherscan content on social media for extra points.
Points can be redeemed for limited-edition 10th anniversary commemorative badges. To participate, users must have an active account created before August 12, 2025 (UTC). Etherscan notes that this program is not a token airdrop but a special 10th anniversary reward.
This points program boosts user engagement and also helps new users get acquainted with Ethereum explorer features and workflows.