Bitcoin (BTC) is known as the first open-source, peer-to-peer cryptocurrency, developed and released by a group of unknown independent programmers named 'Satoshi Nakamoto' in 2008. Bitcoin does not have any centralized server for its issuance, transactions and storage, as it uses a public, distributed network database technology called blockchain, which requires an electronic signature and is supported by a proof-of-work protocol to provide security and legitimacy of transactions. Bitcoin issuance is done by users with mining capabilities and is limited to 21 million coins. Currently, the market value of Bitcoin exceeds US$$ 200 billion and it is the most popular type of digital currency. Buying and selling cryptocurrencies is available through Bitcoin exchanges or ATMs.
