Cryptocurrency is a form of digital money that uses blockchain technology to secure and verify transactions. Unlike traditional currencies issued by banks or governments, cryptocurrencies are decentralized, meaning they operate on a peer-to-peer network without any central authority.

The most well-known cryptocurrency is Bitcoin, created in 2009 as the first digital currency to solve the problem of double-spending through blockchain. Since then, thousands of other cryptocurrencies—such as Ethereum, Litecoin, and Solana—have emerged, each offering unique features and purposes.

To get started, beginners should understand three main components: wallets, exchanges, and blockchain.

• A crypto wallet stores your digital assets securely, either online (hot wallet) or offline (cold wallet).

• A crypto exchange, like Swapify, allows users to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies quickly and safely.

• The blockchain is a public digital ledger that records all transactions transparently and permanently.

Cryptocurrencies can be used for investing, trading, payments, or earning rewards. However, as the market is highly volatile, it’s important to start small, stay informed, and choose trustworthy platforms for trading and storage.

By understanding these basics, beginners can enter the world of crypto with confidence and make smarter financial decisions in this rapidly growing digital economy.