Ethereum is a decentralized, open-source blockchain platform launched in 2015 by Russian-Canadian programmer Vitalik Buterin. Unlike Bitcoin, which was designed primarily as a digital currency, Ethereum was built to do much more. It allows developers to create and deploy decentralized applications (DApps) that operate on a global network of computers without the need for a central authority.

 
At the core of Ethereum’s functionality are smart contracts—self-executing pieces of code that automatically carry out predefined actions when certain conditions are met. This innovation has unlocked entirely new use cases for blockchain technology, from decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to gaming, supply chain tracking, and more.
 
All activity on the Ethereum network is powered by its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH). ETH is used to pay for network transaction fees, commonly referred to as gas fees. These fees compensate validators for securing the network and processing transactions. As demand for Ethereum-based services increases, so does the demand for ETH—often influencing its market value.
 
The eth price has seen significant fluctuations over the years. It has grown from a few dollars at launch to reaching all-time highs above $4,000 during periods of intense market activity. ETH's price is affected by several factors, including overall cryptocurrency market trends, investor sentiment, adoption of DApps, and major network upgrades.
 
One of the most important developments in Ethereum’s history was its switch from a Proof of Work (PoW) to a Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. Completed in September 2022 during an upgrade known as “The Merge,” this transition made Ethereum more energy-efficient by allowing validators to secure the network through staking rather than energy-intensive mining. Validators must lock up 32 ETH to participate, which also impacts ETH’s circulating supply and potentially its price over time.
 
Another milestone was the Shanghai upgrade, which allowed users to unstake ETH that had been locked during the transition to PoS. This change improved network flexibility and gave investors more control over their staked assets.
 
Ethereum’s decentralized nature makes it highly resistant to censorship and downtime, offering an open platform for innovation. As new applications and technologies continue to emerge, Ethereum remains a leading force in the blockchain space.
 

Whether you’re a developer, investor, or simply curious about the future of the internet, understanding Ethereum is essential—and keeping an eye on the ETH price can offer insight into the platform’s growing influence and adoption.