$ETH Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized, open-source blockchain platform that enables smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and others, Ethereum allows developers to build and deploy code that runs exactly as programmed without downtime or third-party interference. Ether (ETH) is the native cryptocurrency used to pay for transactions and computational services on the network. Ethereum transitioned from Proof of Work to Proof of Stake in 2022 with the Merge, significantly reducing its energy consumption. It plays a central role in decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and Web3 development, making it one of the most influential blockchain platforms.