#EthereumFuture Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized, open-source blockchain platform that enables the creation and execution of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps) without any downtime, fraud, control, or interference. Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and a team of developers, Ethereum introduced the concept of programmable blockchain, allowing developers to build and deploy complex applications beyond simple cryptocurrency transactions. The platform’s native currency, Ether, is used to power transactions, pay for computational services, and participate in staking. In 2022, Ethereum transitioned from a proof-of-work to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism in an upgrade known as “The Merge,” significantly reducing its energy consumption and laying the foundation for future scalability improvements. Today, Ethereum plays a central role in decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, gaming, and Web3 innovation.