$ETH

Ethereum (ETH) 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 introduced programmability to blockchain technology through its Turing-complete programming language, Solidity. This innovation extended blockchain use beyond peer-to-peer payments, allowing for DeFi (decentralized finance), NFTs (non-fungible tokens), DAOs (decentralized autonomous organizations), and more.

Ether (ETH) is the native cryptocurrency of the Ethereum network. It is used to pay for transaction fees (gas) and incentivize participants who secure and maintain the network. In 2022, Ethereum transitioned from a proof-of-work (PoW) to a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism with "The Merge," significantly reducing its energy consumption.

Ethereum's open ecosystem has become a foundational layer for Web3—the vision of a decentralized internet where users have control over their data, identity, and assets. Despite facing scalability issues, Ethereum is undergoing continuous upgrades (like sharding and Layer 2 solutions) to enhance speed, cost-efficiency, and user experience.

As the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, Ethereum plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of blockchain technology, finance, and digital ownership. Its versatility and developer community make it a cornerstone of the evolving crypto landscape.