$BTC operates without a financial system or government authorities and doesn't require the involvement of financial institutions. It can be used as an alternative to fiat currencies or as an investment bought through crypto exchanges. It utilizes peer-to-peer transfers on a digital network that records and secures all transactions. This network uses a blockchain, an open-source program that chains transaction histories to prevent manipulation.

Bitcoin makes money for investors through appreciation, the increase of an asset's market value. There's a lot going on behind the scenes in the Bitcoin network, so here's a detailed primer designed to help you further your understanding of this digital phenomenon.