The Beacon Chain is a ledger of accounts that conducts and coordinates the network of compters securing the network (called [stakers](https://ethereum.org/en/staking/)).

 It isn't quite like the [Ethereum Mainnet](https://ethereum.org/en/glossary/#mainnet) of today. It does not process transactions or handle smart contract interactions.

The Beacon Chain is a new consensus engine (or "consensus layer") that will soon take the place of proof-of-work mining, bringing many significant improvements with it.

The Beacon Chain's role will change over time, but it's a foundational component for [the secure, environmentally friendly and scalable Ethereum we’re working towards](https://ethereum.org/en/upgrades/vision/).

- The Beacon Chain doesn't change anything about the Ethereum we use today.
- It introduced proof-of-stake to the Ethereum ecosystem.
- It will coordinate the network, serving as the consensus layer.
- It is an essential precursor to upcoming scaling upgrades, such as sharding.

![](https://cdn.commonstock.com/6b0d68473121bdbcfe009def0c5184cb30c56478702bde917cd9dfb786c4ba4b-1440x1124.png)

An incomplete glossary of technical and non-technical terms related to Ethereum

https://ethereum.org/en/glossary/#mainnet

Ethereum Glossary | ethereum.org

An overview of Ethereum staking: the risks, rewards, requirements, and where to do it.

Ethereum staking | ethereum.org

An overview of the impact upgrades will have on Ethereum, and the challenges they must overcome.

Ethereum vision | ethereum.org

What is the Ethereum Beacon Chain?

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