$ETH Ethereum is a decentralized blockchain platform that enables smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps) to run without downtime, fraud, or interference. Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum introduced the concept of programmable contracts using its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH). Unlike Bitcoin, which primarily serves as digital money, Ethereum's blockchain supports self-executing contracts that automate transactions. It transitioned from Proof of Work (PoW) to Proof of Stake (PoS) with the Ethereum 2.0 upgrade, improving scalability and energy efficiency. Ethereum powers decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and Web3 applications, making it a foundational technology in the blockchain ecosystem.
