If you’re like most people, you’ve probably been hearing a lot about Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies lately. You may even have friends or family who have made a fortune investing in them. But what are they? How do they work? And should you be investing in them too? In this quick start guide, we will answer all of your questions about cryptocurrencies and teach you everything you need to know to get started.
What is Cryptocurrency and How Does it Work?
A cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security. Cryptocurrencies are decentralized which means that are not controlled by any government or institution. Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, was created in 2009.
Cryptocurrencies are generated using a technique known as “mining.” Miners verify transactions and add new blocks to the blockchain technology, which is a ledger available to the public of all cryptocurrency transactions. In return for their work, miners are rewarded with newly minted coins or free bitcoin.
Steps for Buying Crypto
To get started with crypto, follow the below-mentioned steps:
Choose a Brooker or Exchange
Before you can purchase cryptocurrencies, you will first need to select a broker or a cryptocurrency exchange. Even while both of these options allow you to purchase cryptocurrency, there are some important distinctions between them that you should be aware of.
A cryptocurrency broker is a company that will directly sell you cryptocurrencies. The advantage of using a broker is that they usually have very user-friendly platforms and don’t require you to go through an extensive verification process. However, the fees associated with brokers are usually higher than those associated with exchanges.
A cryptocurrency exchange is a platform that allows you to buy, sell, or trade cryptocurrencies. Exchanges typically have more Cryptocurrencies available for purchase than brokers and often have lower fees. However, exchanges require you to go through a lengthy verification process before you can start trading.
Create an Account
After selecting a cryptocurrency broker or exchange, the next step is to join the platform and establish an account. You may be required to authenticate your identity before making a purchase, although this will depend on the platform you use and the amount you intend to purchase. This is a vital step in meeting the standards of the federal regulatory agencies and preventing fraud.
Until you have completed the verification procedure, it’s possible that you won’t be able to purchase or sell cryptocurrencies. It is possible that the platform may require you to provide a copy of your driver’s license or passport. Furthermore, it is possible that it will ask you to take a selfie in order to demonstrate that your look is consistent with the papers you provide. Remember to use a secure email account and a VPN service when possible.
Select the Cryptocurrency You Want to Buy
Once you have deposited funds into your account, it’s time to select the cryptocurrency you want to buy. When making your selection, be sure to take into consideration the following factors:
- The purpose of your investment
- The price of the currency
- The currency’s market capitalization
- The currency’s trading volume
Make a Deposit
Once your account is verified, you will need to make a deposit in order to start trading. Cryptocurrencies can be bought with fiat currency (i.e. USD) or with other cryptocurrencies. You can use bank transfer from your bank account or any other payment method to buy bitcoin.
Choose a Wallet
Cryptocurrency wallets support users to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies to and from their digital wallets. When choosing a wallet, you should consider the following factors:
- The security of the platform
- The ease of use
- The fees associated with the service
Once you have selected a wallet, you will need to generate a “public key.” This public key is what you will use to receive cryptocurrency from other users. Your “private key” is what you will use to access your account and make transactions. It is important that you keep your private key safe and secure as it can be used by someone else to gain access to your account.
You could also choose hardware wallets that are in the form of USB drives that you can carry with you. This type of wallet is called a cold wallet and does not require two factor authentication as a hot wallet does.
Start Trading
Once you’ve made a deposit, you’re ready to start trading in the cryptocurrency market. When making a trade, you will need to specify the amount of cryptocurrency you want to buy or sell as well as the price you are willing to pay for it. Once your order is placed, it will be matched with another order from another user and the transaction will be completed.
Conclusion
It’s important to remember that the prices of cryptocurrencies are constantly changing and it is possible to lose money if you’re not careful. Before making any trades, be sure to do your research and understand the risks involved.
With that said, the crypto space can be a great way to diversify your investment portfolio as a crypto enthusiast and get exposure to a new asset class. We hope this quick start guide has been helpful in getting you started with buying crypto. To learn, visit our website.
