In recent times the cryptocurrency Bitcoin has gained popularity as a digital currency and also an alternative payment method. The digital currency that was initially introduced at the end of 2009, has received more and more interest from both individuals and investors. As Bitcoin increases in importance, it is also important to knowing the technology behind it and the blockchain. This article we’ll examine the idea that is the Bitcoin the blockchain, network and capacity as well as the potential consequences of its usage.
What is Bitcoin?
Bitcoin is an electronic currency, or cryptocurrency, which is stored and created electronically. It is decentralized which means that it’s not tied to any bank, central authority or other institution agency, and is not supported with any tangible asset. Bitcoin is generated through the process of “mining”, in which computers across the globe solve complicated computational issues to create new Bitcoins.
What is Blockchain?
Blockchain is the core technology that runs Bitcoin. It’s a distributed public ledger that keeps track of every Bitcoin transactions, and is protected by cryptography. When more transactions join the Blockchain it expands in size and the data that is stored in it gets more secure.
How Does Bitcoin Leverage Blockchain?
Bitcoin utilizes blockchain technology to confirm and protect transactions. When a user makes an Bitcoin transaction it is sent to the network, and is then combined with other transactions in order to form an “block”. The block is then placed on the Blockchain then the transactions are subsequently verified and protected via the system. This assures that every Bitcoin transactions are safe and unchangeable.
The Benefits of Bitcoin Blockchain
Blockchain technology can bring a host of advantages for Bitcoin users. It allows users to make and receive money quickly and safely, with no necessity of a third-party intermediary. In addition the transactions are irrevocable which means that when a transaction is entered into the Blockchain it is not able to be altered or reversed. In addition blockchain technology allows Bitcoin transactions transparent since all transactions are visible in the Blockchain.
The Challenges of Bitcoin Blockchain
While Bitcoin as well as blockchain technologies can provide numerous benefits however, there are also issues that come with it. One of the major problems is the scaleability. While the Bitcoin network expands it expands the blockchain’s size, but the amount of transactions which can be handled simultaneously is restricted. Furthermore, the process of mining becomes increasingly complicated which results in slower transaction speeds and more costs.
Scaling Bitcoin Blockchain
To address the issues of scalability that plague Bitcoin’s scalability issues Bitcoin system, a variety of options have been suggested. These include off-chain transaction which are transactions executed without blockchain as well as the Lightning Network, which is an alternative payment method that permits users to perform faster and less expensive transactions. Furthermore the Segwit protocol was implemented, which has reduced the amount of transactions that are processed which allows for greater transactions to process in one go.
Conclusion
Blockchain technology and Bitcoin have the potential to change the method we make and receive money. But for this technology to succeed scaling issues that plague the Bitcoin network have to be solved. There are a variety of solutions have been suggested to boost the scalability the Bitcoin network. These solutions could help make Bitcoin more easily accessible and secure.