Ethereum (ETH)

Wat is Ethereum?

Ethereum is a decentralized blockchain platform designed to support smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in 2015 by a team including Vitalik Buterin, Gavin Wood, and Joseph Lubin, it functions as a global, open-source computer. This allows developers to build and deploy a wide variety of digital tools and services without a central authority. The network operates on a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, where validators secure the network. The platform's native cryptocurrency is Ether (ETH), which is used to pay for transaction fees. Ethereum's design enables complex operations, making it a foundational layer for a broad digital economy. It is categorized as a layer-1 blockchain.

Hoe werkt Ethereum?

Ethereum operates using a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, a system where network participants validate transactions and create new blocks. Validators, who are required to stake a specific amount of ETH, are chosen to propose new blocks. This method is designed to be energy-efficient and secure the network against attacks by requiring an economic stake.

The network is maintained by two primary types of participants: nodes and validators. Nodes store a complete copy of the Ethereum blockchain, ensuring data availability and verifying transactions independently. Validators are special nodes that have staked ETH and are responsible for adding new blocks to the chain.

When a user initiates a transaction, it is digitally signed and broadcast to the network. The transaction is then included in a pool of pending transactions from which a validator selects it for a new block. Once the block is validated by other participants and added to the chain, the transaction is considered final.

Ethereum-toepassingen

Ethereum tokenomics

The tokenomics of Ethereum (ETH) are defined by its supply model, which does not have a fixed maximum supply. Unlike some cryptocurrencies with a hard cap, new ETH is continuously created through the block reward process. This issuance is part of the network's proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, where rewards are distributed to validators for securing the network and processing transactions. The circulating supply, which represents the total amount of ETH available, is approximately 120.68 million. While there is no maximum cap, the rate of new issuance is designed to be low relative to the total supply, and a fee-burning mechanism can impact the net supply change.

Prijsontwikkeling en mijlpalen van Ethereum

Since its launch in 2015, the market value of Ethereum (ETH) has experienced significant fluctuations, reflecting its journey within the digital asset landscape. The token's price history includes notable high and low points recorded over its operational years. According to historical data, Ethereum reached its all-time high price of $4953.73 on August 24, 2025. Conversely, the asset's all-time low was recorded on October 21, 2015, when its value was $0.4209. These price points represent the extremes of its valuation since inception. Based on market capitalization, Ethereum holds a rank of 2 among all cryptocurrencies, indicating its position in the broader market.