What is Cryptocurrency?

What is Cryptocurrency?
Cryptocurrencies are decentralized digital currencies, usually designed to be used over the internet.
Launched in 2008, Bitcoin was the first cryptocurrency and is still the largest, most influential and best-known cryptocurrency.
Cryptocurrencies generally cannot be issued or controlled by any government or other central authority.
Cryptos are managed by peer-to-peer networks of computers running free and open-source software. Generally anyone can participate.
The most popular cryptocurrencies by market capitalization are Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, AVAX and BNB.
Other well-known cryptocurrencies include XRP, DOGE and OP.
Some have similar characteristics to Bitcoin.
Others are based on different technologies or have new features that allow them to do more than just transfer value.
Cryptocurrencies make it possible to transfer value online without the need for an intermediary such as a bank or payment processor, allowing value to be transferred almost instantly, 24/7, for low fees.