What is bitcoin

Bitcoin is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security. It was invented in 2008 by an unknown person or group using the name Satoshi Nakamoto and released as open-source software in 2009. Bitcoin is decentralized, meaning it is not controlled by any government or financial institution. Instead, transactions are verified by network nodes through cryptography and recorded in a public distributed ledger called a blockchain. Bitcoin can be bought and sold on various cryptocurrency exchanges, and it is often used as a form of investment or payment for goods and services.