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Bitcoin is the first and most popular cryptocurrency. It powers a peer-to-peer network for the exchange of value through the use of a decentralized protocol. The idea behind Bitcoin is to have a system where there is no middleman or central authority. Bitcoin refers to the Bitcoin software protocol as well as to the monetary unit, which goes by the ticker symbol BTC. At its most basic level, Bitcoin is useful for transacting value outside of the traditional financial system. You can buy and sell BTC for other cryptocurrencies alongside more traditional currencies at crypto exchanges like Binance, Kraken and Bitstamp.

Bitcoin was launched in 2009 by a mysterious person (or group of people) known as Satoshi Nakamoto. What sets Bitcoin apart is that it's completely decentralized, meaning no single entity controls it. Instead, it's maintained by a network of computers, known as miners, who validate transactions.

You can break a single Bitcoin down into 100 million tiny pieces called "satoshis." Owning and sending Bitcoin is fairly straightforward. You keep them in a digital wallet and can send fractions of a Bitcoin to pay for stuff. But when you dig into the technicalities, it's like peeling an onion—layer after layer of complexity.

All Bitcoin transactions happen on a blockchain. Think of it as a public digital ledger that everyone can see but no one can tamper with. Miners are the ones who validate and secure these transactions. They solve complex math problems to validate transactions and are rewarded with new bitcoins for their efforts.

Key Points to Remember

• Bitcoin was the first big player in the cryptocurrency game, and it's still the largest by market value.
• Unlike traditional money, Bitcoin exists on a decentralized network called a blockchain.
• Miners keep the network secure and are rewarded with new bitcoins for their efforts.
• Its value has had a roller-coaster ride, experiencing dramatic ups and downs over the years.
• Because of Bitcoin's success, countless other cryptocurrencies have sprung up.
• You can buy Bitcoin on several cryptocurrency exchanges.