Ethereum ($ETH #) is one of the most popular and important cryptocurrencies in the world. It was created in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin with the goal of expanding blockchain technology beyond simple digital payments. Unlike Bitcoin, Ethereum is a decentralized platform that allows developers to build and run applications without relying on a central authority.
What Makes Ethereum Different?
Ethereum is powered by smart contracts, which are self-executing programs that automatically run when certain conditions are met. These smart contracts remove the need for middlemen, making transactions faster, more secure, and more transparent.
Ethereum and Decentralized Applications (DApps)
Ethereum supports Decentralized Applications (DApps). These applications run on the blockchain and cannot be controlled or shut down by a single entity. DApps are widely used in areas such as:
Decentralized Finance (DeFi)
Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)
Gaming
Digital identity systems