Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual form of currency that uses cryptography for security. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments (fiat currencies), cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized networks based on blockchain technology, which is a distributed ledger enforced by a network of computers (nodes). This decentralized nature allows for greater transparency and resistance to censorship and fraud.

Cryptocurrencies can be transferred directly between users without the need for intermediaries like banks, and transactions are typically recorded on a public ledger. Bitcoin, created in 2009, was the first cryptocurrency and remains the most well-known, but thousands of alternatives, known as altcoins, exist, including Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin.

Cryptocurrencies can serve various purposes, such as a medium of exchange, a store of value, or a unit of account, and they may also enable innovative applications like smart contracts and decentralized finance (DeFi). The market for cryptocurrencies is highly volatile, with values fluctuating significantly based on speculation, market demand, and regulatory developments.