Ethereum is an open source, public blockchain with its native currency being called Ether. Ethereum uses smart contracts to create applications. Hyperledger is an open source, public blockchain with its native currency being called Hyperledger Fabric Tokens. Hyperledger's goal is to improve the security of transactions by making the hardware tamper-proof.

Ethereum and Hyperledger are both prominent blockchain platforms, but they serve distinct purposes and exhibit fundamental differences. Ethereum, a public blockchain, focuses on supporting decentralized applications (DApps) and smart contracts. It employs a consensus mechanism called proof-of-stake in its transition to Ethereum 2.0, enhancing scalability and energy efficiency. On the contrary, Hyperledger is a collection of private and permissioned blockchain frameworks, designed for enterprise solutions. Governed by the Linux Foundation, Hyperledger aims to streamline collaboration among businesses, ensuring privacy and restricted access to the network.

Moreover, Ethereum employs its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), for transactions and incentivizing miners, while Hyperledger allows for flexibility in choosing the appropriate consensus algorithm and does not involve a native cryptocurrency. In essence, Ethereum emphasizes decentralization for public use, while Hyperledger prioritizes permissioned access and tailored solutions for enterprise applications.