What is Ethereum? An introduction to ETH
What you need to know about Ethereum, the blockchain network that supports smart contracts and other decentralized applications.
Ethereum is a blockchain that enables anyone to create decentralized applications (dApps) and run smart contracts. Its native cryptocurrency Ether (ETH) functions as fuel of the platform.
Ethereum developers have designed the Ethereum blockchain to be flexible and programmable, allowing a wide range of decentralized applications and smart contracts. This means that individuals and organizations can leverage the Ethereum blockchain to build trustless systems without the need for intermediaries.
For example, users can participate in the Ethereum network through an Ethereum node–essentially a program that allows people to interact with the Ethereum blockchain, enabling them to run their own nodes, validate transactions, and even develop their own decentralized applications.
One advantage of using the Ethereum blockchain is that smart contracts can be executed automatically when certain conditions are met, reducing the need for manual intervention. As a result, the Ethereum blockchain is becoming an increasingly popular platform for building decentralized applications.
These decentralized applications have use cases that include finance, cloud computing, messaging and distributed governance, but the primary function of Ethereum is for smart contracts.
For example, Ethereum can be used to deploy smart contracts to pay monthly rent or wages. In this scenario, the conditions would be set so that a recurring amount would be transferred from one party to another when a certain date is reached.