On-ramp in the context of cryptocurrencies refers to a platform or service that allows people to transition from fiat money (like US dollars, euros, or another government-issued currency) to cryptocurrencies.
This usually happens through exchanges or other services that accept fiat money, and give you cryptocurrencies in return. These services typically have features to manage KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) requirements, as they are handling regulated fiat currencies as part of their operations.
Some popular examples of on-ramps include Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken. These services allow users to deposit fiat money via bank transfer or credit card, and then purchase cryptocurrencies. The exact method and availability might differ based on jurisdiction and specific platform features.
In the broader sense, an “on-ramp” is a term used in the tech industry to refer to the ways in which a user might start using a service, particularly one that is trying to bridge the gap between traditional and newer technologies. In the context of crypto, this is about making the process of getting started with cryptocurrencies easier for people who are not familiar with the technology.