What is Ethereum?
The network behind smart contracts, tokens, and most of DeFi.
Beginner 3 min readUpdated 5/27/2026
Ethereum (ETH) is a blockchain that can run programs called smart contracts. Where Bitcoin focuses on being money, Ethereum is a platform for applications.
- Smart contracts automatically execute rules without a middleman.
- Most stablecoins, tokens, and DeFi apps run on Ethereum or networks like it.
- ETH is the coin used to pay network ("gas") fees.
Like all crypto, ETH is volatile and not guaranteed.
This article is educational and is not financial advice. Crypto is volatile and trading involves risk.