What is cryptocurrency and how does it work?

What is cryptocurrency? A cryptocurrency is a digital-only token. It uses cryptography (hence the shortened name, "crypto") to regulate how the tokens are created, how they're traded, and how secure they are. And (here's the key appeal for many) it doesn't use or need a central bank or government to control or manage them.

What is a crypto coin?

These crypto coins have their own blockchains which use proof of work mining or proof of stake in some form. They are listed with the largest coin by market capitalization first and then in descending order.

What are crypto tokens?

1 Crypto tokens are a type of cryptocurrency that represents an asset or specific use and resides on their blockchain. 2 Tokens can be used for investment purposes, to store value, or to make purchases. 3 Cryptocurrencies are digital currencies used to facilitate transactions (making and receiving payments) along the blockchain. More items...

What is the vision behind cryptocurrency?

The vision behind cryptocurrency is one of a peer-to-peer electronic currency system that is not controlled by a central authority and therefore, is fast, cheap and invulnerable to censorship (for instance, PayPal blocking gun sales) and other forms of corruption or control.