Bitcoin is the world’s first cryptocurrency — a form of digital money that you can send to anyone, anywhere, without needing a bank in the middle. It launched in 2009, created by an anonymous person or group known only as Satoshi Nakamoto.
Unlike the euros or dollars in your bank account, Bitcoin isn’t issued or controlled by any government or company. Instead, it runs on a global network of computers that all follow the same set of rules.
How does Bitcoin work?
Every Bitcoin transaction is recorded on a shared public ledger called the blockchain. Thousands of computers around the world keep a copy of this ledger and constantly check that everyone is playing by the rules. Because no single party controls it, it’s extremely hard to cheat or fake transactions.
New bitcoins are created through a process called mining, where computers compete to verify transactions and are rewarded with newly issued coins. This is also how the network stays secure.
Why does Bitcoin have value?
- Scarcity: there will only ever be 21 million bitcoins. No one can print more.
- Decentralization: no bank or government can freeze it or shut it down.
- Portability: you can send any amount across the world in minutes.
- Trust in the network: its value comes from the people who use and accept it.
How do you store Bitcoin?
Bitcoin is kept in a crypto wallet. Your wallet holds the private keys that prove the coins are yours. Whoever controls the keys controls the coins — which is why keeping them safe matters so much.
Getting started
Most beginners start by creating an account on a reputable exchange, buying a small amount, and learning how wallets work before doing anything bigger. The golden rule: never invest more than you can afford to lose, and take your time to understand each step.