What Is Ethereum?

Ethereum (ETH) is a blockchain platform that launched in 2015, led by Vitalik Buterin. Beyond being a cryptocurrency like Bitcoin, it's a programmable blockchain on which applications can be built.

Ethereum's core innovation: smart contracts. These allow exchanges, lending platforms, NFT markets, and many other applications to operate without a central authority.

What Is a Smart Contract?

A smart contract is a self-executing program running on the blockchain. When conditions are met, it executes automatically without an intermediary. For example: “If person A sends 1 ETH, automatically transfer B's tokens.”

What Is Ethereum Used For?

• DeFi: Decentralized finance protocols like Uniswap, Aave, Compound
• NFTs: Ownership records for digital assets
• Stablecoins: USDC and USDT run largely on Ethereum
• Layer 2s: Fast networks built on Ethereum like Arbitrum, Polygon, Base

ETH Key Facts

• Symbol: ETH
• Mechanism: Proof of Stake (since 2022)
• Block time: ~12 seconds
• No supply cap, but a burning mechanism creates deflationary pressure

Ethereum in KriptoK

KriptoK supports Ethereum and all EVM-compatible chains (Polygon, Arbitrum, Base, BNB Chain, etc.). Your Ethereum address works across all of these chains. You can store ETH, send it, swap it, and connect to DeFi protocols.