The world of blockchain and decentralized finance continues to evolve, bringing innovative ways for everyday users to participate in cryptocurrency networks. One notable development in recent years was the integration of mining capabilities into consumer-grade hardware — including routers. In 2018, JiHe (Extreme Router) made headlines by officially supporting Ethereum (ETH) mining, positioning itself as a pioneer in the "mining-enabled" home networking space.
Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, has long been a favorite among miners due to its robust ecosystem, smart contract functionality, and widespread adoption. Unlike Bitcoin, which relies solely on proof-of-work (at the time), Ethereum offered a more accessible entry point for smaller-scale miners — especially when combined with user-friendly devices like blockchain-integrated routers.
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The Rise of Blockchain-Enabled Routers
At the Global Blockchain Leadership Summit (GBLS) held in Hangzhou on June 6, 2018, JiHe announced the addition of ETH rewards alongside its existing GCT and ACT token mining options. This move marked a significant milestone in merging traditional networking hardware with blockchain-based incentive models.
These routers were not just about faster Wi-Fi — they aimed to turn passive internet usage into a revenue stream. By leveraging unused computing power, users could theoretically earn digital assets simply by running their router at home.
Key Features of the JiHe X Series
- Tri-band connectivity: Operating on 2.4GHz, 5.2GHz, and 5.8GHz frequencies
- High-speed performance: Up to 2600Mbps wireless transmission rate
- Massive device support: Capable of handling over 130 connected devices simultaneously
- Built-in mining module: Enabled users to mine GCT, ACT, and later ETH tokens
This model reflected a broader trend during the late 2010s: the gamification of home tech through blockchain incentives. However, it also raised questions about long-term profitability, energy efficiency, and network security.
How Did ETH Mining Work on JiHe Routers?
To join the Ethereum mining pool via JiHe’s platform, users needed to meet a prerequisite: own at least 1,000 GCT tokens. This requirement acted as both a barrier to entry and a mechanism to stabilize the internal economy of JiHe’s ecosystem.
GCT served as the governance and utility token within the JiHe network. By requiring ownership of GCT, the company incentivized early adoption and discouraged spam or bot-driven participation.
Once qualified, users could enable ETH mining directly through the JiHe mobile app, where they could monitor hash rates, earnings, and network status in real time.
However, it’s important to note that this wasn’t full-scale Ethereum proof-of-work mining. Instead, JiHe likely used a proxy-mining or cloud-mining partnership model, where user devices contributed to a larger mining pool operated by third parties. The router acted as an access point or coordinator rather than a standalone GPU rig.
Understanding the Core Keywords Behind This Trend
To better understand the significance of this innovation, let’s explore the core keywords that define this space:
- Ethereum (ETH) – The second-largest cryptocurrency, known for smart contracts and dApps.
- Mining – The process of validating transactions and earning rewards in proof-of-work blockchains.
- Smart Router – A next-gen networking device with advanced features like bandwidth management and blockchain integration.
- Passive Income – Earning money with minimal ongoing effort, a key appeal of crypto mining.
- Blockchain Hardware – Physical devices designed to interact directly with blockchain networks.
- Decentralization – The principle of distributing control across many nodes, enhanced by widespread mining participation.
- Home Mining – Small-scale mining operations conducted from residential locations.
- Token Incentives – Reward systems using digital tokens to encourage user engagement.
These concepts continue to shape how individuals interact with decentralized technologies — even beyond traditional mining.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I still mine Ethereum using a JiHe router today?
No, Ethereum completed "The Merge" in September 2022, transitioning from proof-of-work (PoW) to proof-of-stake (PoS). This eliminated traditional mining altogether. As a result, all ETH mining via routers or ASICs is no longer possible.
Q: Was mining on JiHe routers profitable?
For most users, returns were minimal. The actual hashing power provided by a router was extremely low compared to dedicated GPU or ASIC miners. Earnings were often offset by electricity costs and the initial investment in GCT tokens.
Q: What happened to JiHe’s blockchain projects?
After a surge of interest in 2017–2018, many blockchain hardware ventures, including JiHe's mining initiatives, faded due to regulatory scrutiny, declining crypto prices, and technical limitations. There has been little public update on active mining support since 2019.
Q: Is home-based crypto mining still viable?
While GPU-based mining for certain altcoins remains feasible, it requires careful calculation of electricity costs, hardware depreciation, and market volatility. For most users, staking or yield farming offers a more efficient alternative.
Q: What replaced mining on consumer devices?
With the rise of proof-of-stake blockchains, staking has become the preferred method for earning rewards. Users can now participate by locking up tokens in wallets or through exchange-based staking services — without needing specialized hardware.
Q: Are there any risks associated with crypto-enabled routers?
Yes. Devices that run background processes for mining or staking may pose security risks if not properly maintained. These include potential firmware vulnerabilities, unauthorized access, or hidden malware disguised as mining software.
The Legacy of Blockchain Routers
While JiHe’s foray into ETH mining may seem outdated in hindsight, it represented an important experiment in democratizing access to blockchain rewards. It introduced mainstream consumers to the idea that everyday devices could contribute to — and benefit from — decentralized networks.
Today’s equivalents include:
- Smartphones earning tokens through browsing (e.g., Brave Browser + BAT)
- IoT devices participating in decentralized wireless networks (e.g., Helium)
- Home servers running node software for blockchain validation
These developments echo the original vision of JiHe: turning idle resources into productive tools within the digital economy.
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Final Thoughts
The story of JiHe’s Ethereum mining support is more than a tech footnote — it’s a reflection of an era when innovation outpaced regulation and practicality. While the model didn’t stand the test of time, it helped lay the groundwork for future innovations in decentralized infrastructure.
As blockchain technology matures, we’re seeing a shift from hardware-based mining to software-driven participation. Whether through staking, liquidity provision, or node operation, users now have more accessible — and often more profitable — ways to engage with Web3 ecosystems.
For those interested in passive income through digital assets, the journey no longer starts with buying a special router — but with choosing the right platform and strategy.
Always remember: understanding the technology behind any investment is crucial. Whether you're exploring staking ETH or trading altcoins, informed decisions lead to better outcomes.
And as new opportunities emerge in 2025 and beyond, staying updated through reliable platforms ensures you don’t miss the next big shift — just like the one JiHe tried to start years ago.