Introduction to Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies

Introduction

The "Introduction to Bitcoin" course is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Bitcoin and the fundamentals of cryptocurrencies. This one-day course combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on learning, ensuring that attendees leave with a solid grasp of how Bitcoin works, its underlying technology, and its practical applications.

Course Objectives

• Understand the basics of Bitcoin and blockchain technology.
• Learn about cryptocurrency exchanges and how to use them.
• Gain insights into the security aspects of Bitcoin, including private key management.
• Explore the economic and environmental implications of Bitcoin mining.
• Receive practical advice on safely storing and transacting with Bitcoin.

Course Outline

What is Bitcoin?

• Introduction to Bitcoin as a digital currency.
• Overview of blockchain technology and its significance.
• Understanding Bitcoin's open-source nature and its decentralized network.

Blockchain, Energy, and Mining

• Explanation of the blockchain ledger.
• The concept of proof-of-work and mining.
• Economic incentives for miners and energy consumption.

Cryptocurrency Exchanges

• Functionality of cryptocurrency exchanges.
• How to set up and use an exchange account.
• Risks associated with holding money in exchanges and best practices for security.

Managing Private Keys

• Importance of private keys in Bitcoin transactions.
• Risks of losing private keys and how to safeguard them.
• Practical steps for secure Bitcoin storage.

Practical Exercises

• Hands-on activities such as finding Bitcoin nodes, exploring blockchain transactions, and understanding account codes.
• Using blockchain explorers to track Bitcoin transactions.

Target Audience

This course is ideal for individuals with no prior knowledge of cryptocurrencies or Bitcoin who are looking to understand the basics and practicalities of this important technology.

Course Logistics

• One-day course.
• Location: In-person at your location or via virtual web meeting.
• Download: Course Flyer
• Registration: Contact us directly.

Further information

To understand why knowledge of cryptocurrencies is essential, please see our article titled Why Cryptocurrencies.