Bitcoin (BTC) is the first digital currency to operate in a decentralized manner, without a central authority such as a bank or government. Invented in 2008 by an individual or group of people under the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin was launched as open-source software in 2009. Bitcoin allows direct peer-to-peer transactions on the internet.
Here are some of the main features of Bitcoin:
1. Decentralization: Bitcoin operates through a network of computers (nodes) spread throughout the world, ensuring that no single entity controls the network.
2. Blockchain: The basic technology behind Bitcoin is blockchain, which is a digital ledger that records all Bitcoin transactions chronologically and transparently.
3. Limited Supply: Bitcoin supply is limited to 21 million coins. This makes it have similar characteristics to gold, with limited quantities.
4. Transparency and Anonymity : All Bitcoin transactions are recorded on a publicly accessible blockchain, but the identities of senders and recipients remain anonymous through the use of alphanumeric addresses.
5. Security: Bitcoin transactions are verified by miners through a process called "proof of work," which involves solving complex mathematical problems to add new blocks to the blockchain.
Bitcoin is used as a medium of exchange, store of value, and also as an investment asset. Its volatile value and potential to change the traditional financial system have made it attract the attention of many investors and financial industry players around the world.
