> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](/llms.txt).

# Ethereum

Ethereum is a decentralized, open-source blockchain network with [Turing-complete](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turing%5Fcompleteness)smart contract functionality. Ether (ETH) is the native cryptocurrency.

Use Ethereum to build apps and organizations, hold assets, transact, and communicate without being controlled by a central authority. Ethereum uses the [Proof of Stake (PoS)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proof%5Fof%5Fstake) consensus mechanism.

Infura provides access to the [Ethereum JSON-RPC API](/services/reference/ethereum/json-rpc-methods/) method library that interacts with the Ethereum blockchain. Methods include functionality for reading and writing data to the network, and executing smart contracts.

See also

The [official Ethereum documentation](https://ethereum.org/en/) for more information.

- [QuickstartLearn how to quickly connect and make calls to the Ethereum network.](/services/reference/ethereum/quickstart/)
- [JSON-RPC APIsView the APIs available for communicating with the Ethereum network.](/services/reference/ethereum/json-rpc-methods/)
- [Create an API keyLearn how to create and secure an API key.](/developer-tools/dashboard/get-started/create-api/)