$ETH Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized blockchain platform that enables smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps) to run without downtime, fraud, or third-party interference. Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and others, Ethereum introduced programmable blockchain technology, revolutionizing decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and Web3 development. Its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), is used to pay for transactions and computational services on the network. In 2022, Ethereum transitioned from Proof of Work to Proof of Stake with "The Merge," drastically reducing energy consumption. With ongoing upgrades like sharding and layer 2 solutions, Ethereum continues to lead in scalability, innovation, and developer activity across crypto.