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What is a cryptocurrency and how does it work?

Discover the technology behind a cryptocurrency and how blockchain works in this Jobchain help article.

Updated over a year ago

A cryptocurrency is a form of digital currency that is based on blockchain technology. Unlike traditional currencies, such as the dollar or the euro, cryptocurrencies are decentralised and are not backed by any government or financial institution.

Blockchain technology is the basis of cryptocurrencies and is a distributed database that stores information in a secure and verifiable way. Each block in the chain contains a list of transactions and a reference to the previous block, which makes it very difficult to manipulate the stored information.

Cryptocurrencies work through the use of cryptographic keys, which are secret codes that allow users to access and transfer their cryptocurrency. Each user has a crypto wallet, which is an application used to store, send and receive cryptocurrencies.

Cryptocurrency transactions are processed by miners, who are users who solve complex mathematical problems to verify and add transactions to the blockchain. In return for their work, miners receive a reward in the form of new cryptocurrencies, which gives them an incentive to keep the network safe and running.

Cryptocurrencies are increasingly popular as a form of payment and as an investment. Some retailers accept cryptocurrencies as payment, and many people invest in cryptocurrencies as a way to diversify their investment portfolios.

In short, a cryptocurrency is a form of digital currency that is based on blockchain technology. It works through the use of cryptographic keys, cryptographic wallets and validation of transactions by miners. Cryptocurrencies are increasingly popular as a form of payment and investment, and can be an exciting and novel way to interact with the financial world.

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