Ethereum

Ethereum is a network of computers all over the world that follow a set of rules called the Ethereum protocol^[1].
The Ethereum network acts as the foundation for communities, applications, organizations and digital assets that anyone can build and use^[1].

The concept of blockchain is crucial in understanding Ethereum.

Banking: Everyone is allowed to access Ethereum, and the lending, borrowing and savings products built on it is an internet connection.
An open internet: Users can control their own assets and identity, instead of them being controlled by a few mega-corporations.
A peer-to-peer (p2p) network: Ethereum allows users to coordinate, make agreements or transfer digital assets directly with each other.
Censorship-resistant: No government or company has control over Ethereum.
Commerce guarantees: Users have a secure, built-in guarantee that funds will only change hands if they provide what was agreed.
Composable products: All applications are built on the same blockchain with a shared global state, meaning they can build off each other. This allows for better products and experiences and assurances that no-one can remove any tools apps rely upon.

Since Bitcoin stands as the pioneering and most renowned cryptocurrency, drawing a comparison between Bitcoin and Ethereum proves highly beneficial when analyzing Ethereum. As Bitcoin's primary competitor, Ethereum is ranked #2 on most cryptocurrency platforms, while Bitcoin is ranked #1.
While this section focuses on comparing Ethereum and Bitcoin, it's essential to acknowledge that they are not of the same kind. Ethereum operates as a decentralized blockchain, where cryptocurrency is merely one of its numerous applications. In contrast, Bitcoin exclusively functions as a cryptocurrency, akin to the virtual counterpart of a dollar.

Ethereum's price history 2015-2023