Ethereum, launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and a group of developers, is an open-source blockchain platform that enables developers to build decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts.Unlike Bitcoin, which primarily serves as digital money, Ethereum is a programmable blockchain that allows for the creation of custom tokens, decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).The native cryptocurrency of the Ethereum platform is called Ether (ETH), which is used to fuel transactions and execute smart contracts on the network.Ethereum’s smart contract functionality enables developers to create self-executing contracts with predefined conditions, eliminating the need for intermediaries and enabling trustless transactions.

The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) is a decentralized runtime environment that executes smart contracts, ensuring their security and immutability.Ethereum’s decentralized nature and robust infrastructure have made it a hub for innovation, driving the development of DeFi, NFTs, decentralized exchanges (DEXs), and more.The Ethereum community is vibrant and diverse, with developers, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts collaborating to push the boundaries of blockchain technology forward.Ethereum’s upcoming transition to Ethereum 2.0 aims to improve scalability, security, and sustainability through the implementation of a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism and sharding.As one of the most widely adopted blockchain platforms, Ethereum continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of decentralized finance, digital ownership, and the internet of value.With its powerful capabilities and decentralized architecture, Ethereum has the potential to revolutionize industries, redefine economic systems, and empower individuals worldwide.