# 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. ETH predates the ERC-20 standard and is required to validate and propose blocks, making it the base 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) - [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@EthereumFoundation) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/ethereum-foundation) - [GitHub](https://github.com/ethereumfoundation) ## Relationships - [Ethereum Foundation](https://thegrid.id/profiles/ethereum_foundation): Subsidiary ## Legal This data is provided under two licensing models. 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