Understanding Cryptocurrency: What You Should Know
Chintan Dave
General Manager - AI CERTs | Director- Blockchain | Certified Blockchain Trainer and Solutions Architect | Author | Speaker | Trainer | AI & Blockchain Advisor
Since Bitcoin's debut, cryptocurrencies have gained worldwide popularity. Since 2009, cryptocurrency has grown. Overall, the market capitalization of cryptocurrencies has crossed $2 trillion.
It's everywhere. You've come to the proper place if it's too technical. This article explains cryptocurrencies. It's simple. You only need to understand cryptocurrency and blockchain basics.
Cryptocurrency?
Cryptocurrency is a computer-code-based digital currency. It's independent of banks and governments.
Cryptography secures cryptocurrency transactions using codes. Bitcoin, the first and most famous cryptocurrency, debuted in January 2009. Over 5,000++++ cryptocurrencies are online.
After MicroStrategy, Tesla, and Paypal saw how valuable cryptocurrency could be, people started to see it as a way to invest.
What differentiates crypto from fiat?
Cryptocurrencies employ the blockchain to build a decentralized network, unlike traditional currencies. They're like fiat money. They're transparent, unique, and don't require third-party interruptions. Peer-to-peer trading makes cryptocurrencies a potential technology.
Blockchain?
Distributing cryptocurrency transaction data in chunks creates a blockchain. Completed blocks are posted to the blockchain with the latest transactions.
They're stored in chronological order as an open, permanent, and verifiable record. An ever-changing network of market players verifies new blocks in blockchains.
Every network node immediately downloads the blockchain. Everyone can trace transactions without centralized record-keeping.
The blockchain creates an unchangeable record. Bitcoin founder Satoshi Nakamoto invented blockchain. This concept has inspired uses beyond digital cash and money.
领英推荐
Mining cryptocurrency?
Mining coins involves solving challenging arithmetic problems. When someone trades cryptocurrency, the transaction is recorded on the blockchain. A "miner" certifies the transaction's validity to finish the process. The transaction is then permanently recorded in the blockchain for everybody to observe.
Verification requires miners to answer complicated equations. They're racing to address the problem. First-place finishers are rewarded with a share of the transaction. Every transaction introduces new coins.
It's costly. It demands powerful computers and lots of electricity.
Cryptocurrency trading tips
Steps to easily exchange cryptocurrencies.
You'll need a crypto exchange account. Many bitcoin exchanges are operating. You can choose the best cryptocurrency exchange. Coinbase, Gemini, and eToro are popular.
After creating an exchange account, you must connect your bank account to fund it.
Crypto: You can buy any coin after financing your account. Buy Ethereum, bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies.
Wallets are needed to store cryptocurrency. Most exchanges offer a software wallet, but hardware wallets are more secure.
Plan: After buying cryptocurrencies, you'll need a plan to avoid losing money or being scammed. You'll need to research the market and its conditions.
Before investing in cryptocurrency, know the following: