Ether is the native cryptocurrency of the Ethereum blockchain, which is a decentralized platform that enables developers to build and deploy decentralized applications (dApps). Ether serves as the fuel for executing smart contracts and paying transaction fees on the Ethereum network.

The supply of Ether is not fixed, and new Ether tokens are created through a process called mining. The total supply of Ether can be adjusted based on network demand. Ether has become one of the most popular cryptocurrencies in the world, with a market capitalization exceeding $300 billion.

Ether is used for more than just paying transaction fees. It is also used to purchase goods and services, invest in projects built on Ethereum, and participate in decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols.