Ethereum is a decentralized blockchain platform that enables developers to build and deploy smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum introduced the concept of programmable blockchain, going beyond Bitcoin's simple value transfer. It uses Ether (ETH) as its native cryptocurrency to power transactions and computational services. With the transition to Ethereum 2.0 and the proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, it has become more energy-efficient and scalable. Ethereum supports a vast ecosystem of DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 projects, making it a cornerstone of the modern crypto and blockchain landscape, fostering innovation and digital decentralization worldwide.
