#ETHBreaks2k Ethereum is a decentralized, open-source blockchain platform that enables developers to build and deploy smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and others, Ethereum operates on its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), which is used for transactions and as a utility for executing smart contracts.

One of Ethereum's most significant innovations is its Turing-complete programming language, Solidity, which allows developers to create complex applications on the blockchain. The network has gained immense popularity for a range of uses, including decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and more.

In 2022, Ethereum transitioned from a proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanism to proof-of-stake (PoS) with the Ethereum 2.0 upgrade, significantly reducing its energy consumption and environmental impact while enhancing security and scalability. Despite challenges like network congestion and high transaction fees, Ethereum continues to be a driving force in the blockchain space and a vital part of the Web3 movement.