The purpose of Ethereum is to enable developers to create and deploy decentralized applications, or DApps, on the Ethereum blockchain. Ethereum provides a platform for developers to create and deploy these DApps, which are powered by a global network of computers, and are secured by cryptography.
For example, a decentralized application (DApp) could be used to facilitate peer-to-peer payments, create a marketplace for buying and selling goods, or even to create a new type of digital currency. Ethereum also provides the ability to create and deploy smart contracts, which are automated agreements between two or more parties that are written in code and executed on the Ethereum blockchain. Smart contracts can be used to facilitate a variety of transactions, such as escrow services, insurance policies, and even voting systems.