$ETH Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized platform based on blockchain that allows the creation and execution of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and other developers, Ethereum goes beyond simple transaction recording, like Bitcoin, by enabling more complex functionalities such as the creation of tokens and autonomous systems. Its native token, Ether (ETH), is used both as currency and to pay transaction fees and contract execution on the network, known as "gas".

One of the greatest innovations of Ethereum was the introduction of the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), which allows smart contract code to be executed exactly as programmed, without risk of censorship or interference from third parties. In September 2022, Ethereum underwent a historic upgrade called "The Merge," which replaced the proof of work mining model with proof of stake, significantly reducing the network's energy consumption.

Ethereum is the foundation of much of the DeFi (decentralized finance) ecosystem, NFTs (non-fungible tokens), and various innovations in blockchain. Its development remains active, focusing on scalability and usability for a more decentralized future.

Have you ever used any Ethereum-based dApp?