Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency created in 2008 by an individual or group of individuals using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. It was launched in 2009 as open-source software. Here are the main features of Bitcoin:
Blockchain**: Blockchain technology is a public ledger of every transaction that has ever occurred on the Bitcoin network. Transactions are grouped into blocks, which are added to the blockchain.
Limited Supply**: Only 21 million Bitcoins will ever be created. This limit is programmed into Bitcoin's code and ensures its deflationary nature.
Mining**: Bitcoins are created through a process called mining. Miners use computing power to solve complex mathematical problems. For successfully solving a problem, the miner is rewarded with new Bitcoins.
Anonymity and Security**: Bitcoin transactions can be relatively anonymous, although they are all recorded on the public blockchain. The system uses cryptographic methods to ensure transaction security.