Bitcoin 101

The world needs an open protocol for money—one that isn't owned or controlled by any single entity

Your Guide to the World of Cryptocurrency

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Your Guide to the World of Bitcoin

  • 1

    What is Bitcoin?

    Bitcoin is the world's first decentralized digital currency, often referred to as a cryptocurrency. Created in 2009 by an unknown person (or group) using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin operates on a peer-to-peer network without the need for intermediaries like banks or governments.

    Key points:

    • Digital currency that exists only electronically
    • Based on blockchain technology
    • Limited supply of 21 million coins
    • Transactions are pseudonymous and transparent
  • 2

    Why is Bitcoin Unique?

    Bitcoin stands out in the financial world due to several distinctive features:

    • Decentralization: No single authority controls Bitcoin
    • Transparency: All transactions are recorded on a public ledger
    • Limited Supply: Only 21 million Bitcoins will ever exist, making it resistant to inflation
    • Borderless Transactions: Send money globally without traditional banking restrictions
    • Security: Cryptographic techniques make Bitcoin extremely difficult to counterfeit
  • 3

    How to Make the Most Out of Your Bitcoin

    To maximize the potential of your Bitcoin investment:

    1. Educate Yourself: Understand the technology and market dynamics
    2. Long-term Holding (HODLing): Consider holding Bitcoin as a long-term investment
    3. Dollar-Cost Averaging: Invest small amounts regularly to mitigate market volatility
    4. Use Bitcoin for Transactions: Support the ecosystem by using Bitcoin where accepted
    5. Stay Informed: Keep up with news and developments in the cryptocurrency space
    6. Consider Diversification: Don't put all your eggs in one basket; diversify your investments
  • 4

    How to Keep Your Bitcoin Safe

    Security is crucial when dealing with Bitcoin. Here are some best practices:

    • Use a Reliable Wallet: Choose between hardware wallets for large amounts or software wallets for convenience
    • Backup Your Wallet: Store your recovery phrase in a secure, offline location
    • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts
    • Be Wary of Scams: Don't fall for promises of unrealistic returns or unsolicited investment advice
    • Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure your wallet and devices have the latest security patches
    • Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Never reuse passwords across different platforms
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Bitcoin Whitepaper

Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System 

Satoshi Nakamoto 

[email protected] 

www.bitcoin.org 

Abstract. A purely peer-to-peer version of electronic cash would allow online payments to be sent directly from one party to another without going through a financial institution. Digital signatures provide part of the solution, but the main benefits are lost if a trusted third party is still required to prevent double-spending. We propose a solution to the double-spending problem using a peer-to-peer network. The network timestamps transactions by hashing them into an ongoing chain of hash-based proof-of-work, forming a record that cannot be changed without redoing the proof-of-work. The longest chain not only serves as proof of the sequence of events witnessed, but proof that it came from the largest pool of CPU power. As long as a majority of CPU power is controlled by nodes that are not cooperating to attack the network, they'll generate the longest chain and outpace attackers. The network itself requires minimal structure. Messages are broadcast on a best effort basis, and nodes can leave and rejoin the network at will, accepting the longest proof-of-work chain as proof of what happened while they were gone.