What is Ethereum?

Ethereum (ETH) is a blockchain that can run programs called smart contracts, which carry out agreements automatically when conditions are met. It was proposed by Vitalik Buterin and launched in 2015.

What is it used for?

Developers build apps on Ethereum, such as decentralised finance (DeFi), stablecoins and digital collectibles (NFTs). Many other tokens are built on top of Ethereum.

ETH and fees

ETH is the coin used to pay for transactions and computation on the network. These fees are called gas.

Proof of stake

Since 2022 Ethereum no longer uses mining. Instead, validators lock up (stake) ETH to confirm transactions and earn rewards.

Ethereum vs Bitcoin

Bitcoin is mainly used as digital money and a store of value, while Ethereum is a platform for building applications. Both prices are volatile, and neither is a guaranteed investment. See the live Ethereum price or read about Bitcoin.