Basic terms
Blockchain
A modern technology that is the basis for the functioning of the vast majority of cryptocurrencies. Blockchain is based on so-called blocks. These contain data in the form of a register of transactions. The whole is secured by a system of connections between blocks created using cryptographic methods. Subsequent segments are connected to each other in a chain. Each block contains not only an individual set of data, but also fragments of information from the block preceding and following it. In this way, data is dispersed throughout the chain. This makes transactions involving cryptocurrencies extremely secure. Breaking the chain of blocks, even in pure theory, seems practically impossible, as it would require the use of computers with huge computational parameters. The technology on which most cryptocurrencies are based. Each record, or block, contains a record of transactions that are secured and linked using cryptographic techniques. In practice, this means that there is no single place to store data, and every user of the network has a complete record of transactions.
Cryptocurrency
A decentralized virtual means of payment that is not subject to any control by state banks or other such institutions. A decentralized virtual currency that is not controlled by any central bank. It is based on cryptography. Cryptocurrency transactions take place directly between parties, usually using blockchain technology.
Altcoin
A cryptocurrency that is less popular, though still capable of generating high enough returns.
Mining
This is the process of adding new entries to the public transaction register. This is done using special, powerful computers. Anyone who has such equipment may become a miner. The process of adding new entries to the public register of transactions (blockchain). It requires specific hardware and cost-effective calculations to keep the number of found and added blocks stable. Extracted cryptocurrencies can be sold on the market.
Token
The term for the monetary unit of a cryptocurrency. Due to the fact that these funds have no physical form, it is difficult to apply the term 'coin' to them. Therefore, from a pragmatic point of view, it seems more beneficial to use the term 'token'.
Smart Contract
They operate based on blockchain technology. They are used to cryptographically link the parties involved in a transaction. In exchange for a specific cryptocurrency that enables the creation of a contract, special decentralized programs can return tokens to users under defined conditions, such as when investing in new projects within the platform.
Halving
Increasing the difficulty of mining/excavating. Some cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, have a limited supply. To put it another way - from the very beginning it is known how many monetary units will eventually enter circulation. In order to maintain a stable market situation in such a case, it is necessary to limit the issuance from time to time. This is what halving is. It is nothing else than halving the number of new units going into circulation. Interestingly, this phenomenon is carried out automatically in the case of Bitcoin every 210,000 blocks.
Crypto Exchange
A type of online service where it is possible to buy and sell digital currencies. Importantly, such platforms are characterized by considerable intuitiveness and functionality. This makes making operations with crypto seem extremely easy. There are at least several exchanges of this kind. It is recommended to choose the most trusted ones, gathering as many users as possible. The point is that buying and selling digital money should take place in a proven and safe place.
Satoshi
The smallest value of a bitcoin. 1 satoshi = 1/100000000 Bitcoin (one hundred millionth of a Bitcoin).
ICO - (Initial Coin Offering)
A modern, unregulated form of crowdfunding in which capital is raised using cryptocurrencies. New tokens are issued for this purpose. The proceeds from their sale are used to achieve the goals set out in the business plan, which is usually presented before the ICO is launched.
2 Factor Authentication (2FA)
A two-tier security measure. Most cryptocurrency exchanges use it. To log in, you have to provide not only a password, but also a code that you get from Google authenticator, for example.
Atak 51%
Refers to a possible attack on blockchain by a group of 'miners' who own more than 50% of the computing power. In such a situation, 'miners' may deliberately not confirm transactions or issue transactions twice (double-spend).
Wallet Address
The digital equivalent of a bank account number. It is a unique set of numbers and letters. This identification code is required for blockchain transactions and is unique for each owner.
NFT (non-fungible token)
It is a type of token that represents unique assets. They can be both digital and represent real-world assets. An example would be a sword in a game or ownership of a piece of land. NFTs are typically rare, unique and indivisible. Blockchain BSV facilitates the creation of NFTs by restoring the original Bitcoin protocol.
Airdrop
Method of coin distribution. End users can typically receive coins for free or in exchange for performing a small task, such as signing up for a newsletter, sending a tweet, or inviting others through a personal affiliate link.
Apeing
Apeing is when a cryptocurrency trader buys a token shortly after the token project launch without conducting thorough research.
TPS (Transaction Per Second)
The number of transactions the network can process each second.