Ethereum ($ETH ) is the second-largest cryptocurrency after #Bitcoin . Launched in 2015, it's more than just a digital currency; it's a decentralized platform that enables the creation of smart contracts and decentralized applications (#dApps ). Its native cryptocurrency, Ether, fuels the network and is used to pay transaction fees, known as "#GAS ." #Ethereum 's versatility has made it the backbone of much of the DeFi (Decentralized Finance) and NFT (Non-Fungible Token) ecosystems. Ongoing upgrades aim to improve its scalability, security, and sustainability, solidifying its position as a key player in the blockchain space.