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According to recent statistical data, more than 300 million people worldwide have invested in cryptocurrencies in 2022. Since they’ve been rapidly growing since the first digital currency was launched in 2009, experts predict the number of investors will continue to increase in the years to come. You’ve probably heard about Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Coin, and many other cryptocurrencies. However, do you know how they work? If the answer is no, continue reading because we’re breaking down the process for you.
Mining
To create units of cryptocurrency, users first have to go through a complex process of mining. They leverage the power of their computers and other equipment to the network to make transactions. To complete any transaction, they have to solve rather difficult mathematical and logical puzzles to win bitcoins as a reward. While you may think mining one bitcoin takes 10-15 minutes, in reality, the process may take up a whole month.
Over the last few years, crypto mining has become more complex and consuming than ever. Competing in such a challenging environment requires large amounts of computational power. Most miners don’t own any required equipment, so they have to invest without any guarantee that the mining will result in any profit. The process also raises environmental concerns since the amount of electricity required for powering computers is massive.
Buying
There are many ways users can buy or sell cryptocurrencies. For example, they can do so through brokers or owners of the desired cryptocurrency. Also, many platforms or exchanges like Bitcode Method offer the same service securely. To use the platforms, you should register first. The registration process lasts a few minutes, after which you get an account manager. Depending on the platform, you may have to cover registration or deposit fees. On the bright side, the platforms cover various payment methods. After covering the fee, you should also set up your account properly. Then, you can start trading.
Storing
When you buy a cryptocurrency, you can choose one of the few available storage options. For starters, the platform or exchange allows users to store their digital assets. If you decide to do so, you have to accept the risk it involves. Like all other software platforms, the ones used for cryptocurrency trading are susceptible to hacker attacks. On the other hand, most platforms are insured against hacks. Still, you should be aware of the fact that in most countries, crypto investments have less or no federal protection, unlike conventional investments.
Another way of storing your cryptocurrencies is in a crypto wallet, either a hot or cold one. The main difference between the two is the Internet connection. To access your assets in the hot wallet, you need the Internet and a device, such as your phone. As a result, accessing online marketplaces has never been easier. In contrast, cold wallets operate without an Internet connection. Since they are in the physical form of USB or hard drives, they’re more secure than cold wallets.
Before you choose which wallet is best for your assets, take some time to familiarize yourself with its risks and benefits. Which wallet you’ll choose also depends on what you intend to do with your crypto. If you want to continue trading, then storing them on the exchange makes sense. In case you want to store them long-term, then cold wallets are the safest option. In fact, you can combine the options for the best results.
Investing
Owners of cryptocurrencies can use them as a payment method for goods or services. Cryptocurrencies can easily be transferred from one wallet to another. All you have to use is a smartphone. Before you decide to use them this way, make sure it’s a legitimate payment method in your country. If this happens to be the case, use debit cards since it’s the easiest way to pay for goods.
What you can also do is convert cryptocurrencies to cash. Valid bank accounts are all you need to make the transactions.
Apart from using cryptocurrencies for buying goods or exchanging them for money, you can trade them using platforms.
Although millions of people own or use cryptocurrencies, there are still some people who aren’t sure how they work. With this guide, you’ve finally understood what it takes for investors to get cryptocurrencies and trade them for profits.
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