$ETH

Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized, open-source blockchain platform that enables the creation and execution of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and others, Ethereum introduced programmability to blockchain technology through its native language, Solidity. Unlike Bitcoin, which primarily functions as a digital currency, Ethereum allows developers to build complex applications without centralized control. Its native cryptocurrency, ether (ETH), is used to pay for transaction fees and computational services on the network. Ethereum has transitioned to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism through the Ethereum 2.0 upgrade, significantly reducing its energy consumption. It plays a vital role in decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and Web3 innovation.