--- title: Home root: .. --- ## What is Geth? Geth (go-ethereum) is a [Go](https://go.dev/) implementation of [Ethereum](http://ethereum.org) - a gateway into the decentralized web. Geth has been a core part of Etheruem since the very beginning. Geth was one of the original Ethereum implementations making it the most battle-hardened and tested client. Geth is an Ethereum *execution client* meaning it handles transactions, deployment and execution of smart contracts and contains an embedded computer known as the *Ethereum Virtual Machine*. Running Geth alongside a consensus client turns a computer into an Ethereum node. ## What is Ethereum? Ethereum is a technology for building apps and organizations, holding assets, transacting and communicating without being controlled by a central authority. It is the base of a new, decentralized internet. Read more on our [Ethereum page](/ethereum) or on [ethereum.org](http://ethereum.org). ## Why run a node? Running your own node enables you to use Ethereum in a truly private, self-sufficient and trustless manner. You don't need to trust information you receive because you can verify the data yourself using your Geth instance. **"Don't trust, verify"** [Read more about running a node](http://https://ethereum.org/en/run-a-node/#main-content)