#CryptoFees101 Why Do Crypto Transactions Have Fees?

Ever wonder why you’re charged a fee every time you send crypto? That fee isn’t just a random charge — it’s a critical part of how blockchains work. When you make a transaction on networks like Bitcoin or Ethereum, it has to be validated and added to the blockchain by miners (or validators, in proof-of-stake systems). Your fee is an incentive for them to process your transaction. The higher the fee, the faster your transaction is likely to be confirmed. On busy networks, fees spike due to demand — think of it like surge pricing. Some blockchains like Solana or Avalanche offer much lower fees thanks to different technical designs. Always check fee rates before sending crypto, and use fee estimators to avoid overpaying. It’s not just about saving money — it’s about understanding the tech you’re using.