Basic Crypto Terms Simplified for Beginners

Hanging out with a group of crypto enthusiasts resembles watching the famous Game of Thrones characters speaking Valyrian without subtitles – you don’t understand a single word, and, at times, you feel like you’ve been transported to an entirely different world. And just like crypto, you hope it ends with a happy “HODL” scenario instead of a red wedding. 

In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the complexities of crypto language and demystify common terms and phrases, helping you to navigate the crypto realm without subtitles. Until now, you knew nothing about crypto Trader Snow – get ready to become the leader of the Night’s Watch and conquer the crypto world. Let’s begin. 

Understanding the Basics of Blockchain

Let’s get straight from the start; learning the definition of Blockchain won’t help you read the Candlestick chart method or find the best altcoin to purchase. However, it will help you understand why crypto is all the rage and the reasons for its rapid adoption. 

Blockchain is an advanced database, often called a ledger, that allows the transparent sharing of information within a business network. To help you better understand this concept, here’s a simple example:

Family Budget

Imagine every family member having a notebook with endless pages to write down incomes and expenses. Every time a family member receives income or spends it, a new page will be created with information about the following:

• Amount
• Sender
• Recipient 
• Balance

The following purchase or income will create a new page containing the information from the previous page and the further transaction details, thus forming a chain. The best part is that every family member will have the same data in their notebooks in real-time. 

And if someone spends some money on games, snacks or forbidden magazines, the new transaction will be recorded in all notebooks simultaneously. However, if that “someone” tries to delete or alter the transaction details in their notebook, other family members will notice it because they have already received information on the purchase. 

As a result, other family members will never validate the false changes and keep the family expenses clean, transparent and immutable – which are the core values of Blockchain.  

In Blockchain, all transactions are recorded in a chain of blocks, where each member has a copy of the block, thus making it almost impossible to tamper with. Following the GOT analogy, Blockchain is the three-eyed-raven, the living repository of crypto collective memory, standing as a sentinel against tampering, ensuring the integrity and transparency of the decentralized ledger.

Introduction to Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency relies on Blockchain technology to secure and verify transactions. It uses cryptography for security and operates on a decentralized network of computers (nodes).

Unlike traditional currencies controlled by a single entity or government, cryptocurrencies use cryptography to secure transactions and create new units. This not only ensures the integrity and security of the currency but completely removes the need for intermediaries, giving the decision-making process into the hands of individuals (owners).  

Contrary to fiat currencies, represented by personal information, their crypto counterparts use cryptographic addresses during transactions, allowing users to send or receive funds anonymously. 

Overview of Crypto Exchanges

Crypto exchanges are online platforms or digital marketplaces, if you prefer, which allow users to buy, sell and trade various cryptocurrencies. Users can exchange one cryptocurrency for another or fiat currencies like USD, EUR, GBP, or any other. 

The role of crypto exchanges is crucial as they serve several purposes:

• Listing different cryptocurrency pairs
• Helps traders assess market demand and supply
• Provide wallets for users to store crypto
• Offer tools to help users analyze the market and make educated decisions
• Implement security measures and cold storage to protect users’ funds from hackers

Examples of well-known cryptocurrency exchanges include:

• CEX.IO
• Coinbase
• Binance
• Kraken
• Bitfinex
• Gemini
• Coincheck

Choosing the right crypto exchange is essential for keeping your capital well-secured. For example, once you sign in to CEX.IO exchange to register a new profile, the platform will ask you to verify your identity before engaging in significant transactions. 

Moreover, it’ll help you create several layers of your account protection in order to prevent authorized access. This multi-layered security typically involves enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) as an additional verification method, such as sending the code to your mobile device. 

By taking these precautionary measures, you not only comply with the exchange’s security protocols but also significantly enhance the safeguarding of your funds. 

Securing Your Assets: What is a Crypto Wallet?

Crypto wallets are tools or applications that allow users to store their cryptocurrencies. Unlike traditional wallets you use to hold cash physically, digital wallets use cryptographic keys (public and private) to help you access and manage your cryptocurrency holdings. Crypto wallets allow you to send and receive crypto and check balances. 

There are different types of wallets available:

• Hardware Wallets – physical devices not connected to the internet you can use to store crypto. 
• Software Wallets – Applications you install on your computer or smartphone. 
• Web Wallets – Typically provided by the crypto exchange, great for traders and keeping smaller amounts of crypto
• Paper Wallets – Literally a piece of paper where you write your public and private keys. 
• Mobile Wallets – Like its namesake suggests these wallet types are designed for smartphone users, allowing you to manage your crypto funds on the go. 
• Desktop Wallets – Installed on your computer but not connected to any crypto exchange

You should choose a crypto wallet that meets your specific needs and preferences. Also, you should consider getting a wallet from a reputable provider to get the required level of protection against hacker attacks, which are more common than one might think. 

Finally, whichever option you choose, make sure to keep your private keys in a secure location and eliminate the risk of losing access to your funds. 

Conclusion

Understanding basic terms like Blockchain, cryptocurrency, crypto exchanges and crypto wallets will help you navigate the crypto realm securely and more easily. Due to the nature of Blockchain your transactions are secured from White Walkers looking to eclipse the crypto world by creating an endless winter. 

With your newfound knowledge of crypto essentials, you are ready to face the challenges and avoid the pitfalls that may come your way. And now that you finally understand Valyrian, you can enter a conversation with any crypto enthusiasts without the fear of misinterpreting the “cold wallet” for refrigeration or stumbling over terms like cryptocurrency or crypto exchange.