What it is
ETH is Ethereum’s native asset. It pays network transaction fees and participates in the network’s staking mechanism. Ethereum is the network; ETH is an asset used by that network.
A practical distinction
Interacting with a token or application can require ETH for network fees. A token balance alone does not necessarily cover those fees. A failed application transaction can still consume fees.
Study exercise
Write down the network, the asset required for fees and the application permissions before any hypothetical transfer. Separate an application’s risk from the network’s role.
Before using any asset
Check the exact network and asset identifier, custody arrangements, liquidity and current provider documentation. These notes explain mechanics and do not recommend buying an asset.
Source: Ethereum.org: What is ether?. Reviewed 15 September 2026.