# Ethereum > The internet that belongs to you Ethereum is a decentralized, open-source blockchain network that allows developers to deploy decentralized applications and users to transact using smart contracts. Ethereum is a Layer 1 blockchain network built as a programmable settlement layer for smart contracts and decentralized applications. Developers deploy self-executing programs on the network, while users hold and transfer digital assets, interact with applications, and participate in on-chain governance proposals. Its native cryptocurrency, Ether, secures the network and pays for transaction and computation costs. The network addresses the need for a general-purpose, permissionless computing platform beyond simple value transfer. It operates using a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, in which independent validators confirm transactions and secure the chain without a central operator. Protocol changes are proposed publicly and adopted only with broad community support, and no single company or individual controls its operation. Ethereum hosts a wide ecosystem spanning decentralized finance, non-fungible tokens, stablecoins, and decentralized social applications, with multiple Layer 2 networks built to extend its capacity. It is maintained by a distributed set of developers, node operators, and stakers rather than a central entity. The network is used by builders creating decentralized applications and by individuals transacting, holding assets, or participating in governance across the ecosystem. - Type: Network - Sector: Blockchain Platforms - Status: Active - Founded: 2014-01-01 - Profile: https://thegrid.id/profiles/Ethereum ## Products - [Ethereum Mainnet](https://thegrid.id/profiles/Ethereum): Ethereum Mainnet is a Layer 1 blockchain network that executes smart contracts and processes transactions through a Proof-of-Stake consensus mechanism. It supports the EVM, allowing developers to deploy decentralized applications and ERC-20 tokens against a shared onchain state. The network secures transactions via validators that stake ETH as collateral and earn rewards for honest validation. (L1, Live, Main Product) ## Assets - [Ether (ETH)](https://thegrid.id/profiles/Ethereum): ETH is the native token of Ethereum. It is used for paying transaction fees, securing the network through staking, and participating in governance. Launched in 2015, ETH was the first cryptocurrency to power general-purpose programmable smart contracts and remains the settlement asset across Ethereum and its Layer 2 networks. (Native) ## Links - [Blog](https://blog.ethereum.org) - [Documentation](https://ethereum.org/en/developers/docs) - [Whitepaper](https://ethereum.org/content/whitepaper/whitepaper-pdf/Ethereum_Whitepaper_-_Buterin_2014.pdf) - [Main](https://ethereum.org) - [Privacy policy](https://ethereum.org/privacy-policy) - [Terms of Service](https://ethereum.org/terms-of-use) - [Media Kit/branding](https://ethereum.org/assets) - [Twitter / X](https://x.com/ethereum) - [GitHub](https://github.com/ethereum) - [Twitter / X](https://x.com/ethdotorg) - [Discord](https://discord.gg/ethereum-org) - [Twitter / X](https://x.com/ethereumfndn) - [Farcaster](https://warpcast.com/ethereum) - [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/ethereum) ## Relationships - [Ethereum Foundation](https://thegrid.id/profiles/ethereum_foundation): Subsidiary ## Legal This data is provided under two licensing models. Model 1 - open data. 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