Cryptocurrency mining is free money, but only if you are smart enough. You can earn by contributing to the software technology that runs the crypto blockchain.
Mining is the lifeline of the crypto world. It validates ongoing transactions and puts new coins into circulation. In simple terms, a miner solves some compound math problems to authenticate transactions.
It is the process by which a miner trades computing power and electricity for the block reward. The block reward is an incentive for miners to help support the blockchain technology behind cryptocurrencies.
The benefits of Crypto Mining
If you are a crypto-miner then it could be a good side gig. With a little examination, you can make passive income based on computing skill without doing anything about it.
Next, you can be a vital part of the crypto movement as miners. You can be one of the main contributors to making decentralized finance a reality.
Finally, you have the right to veto any changes to network protocols.
Cryptocurrency mined vs. unmined cryptocurrency
A consensus mechanism is a process of approving transactions in a decentralized system such as a blockchain. It also helps keep the system safe from possible vulnerabilities such as a 51% attack.
A 51% attack is a condition where a bad performer controls more than 51% of the blockchain. This majority empowers the fraudster to shape the protocols according to the will. A consensus mechanism supports power decentralized. Such a degree of decentralization requires enormous computing capabilities and work to do a 51% attack. Eventually, a scammer is expected to lose more than he would win.
There are lots of consensus methods such as proof of work, proof of stake, proof of capacity, and proof of activity.
Depending on the type of consensus mechanism, cryptocurrencies may require mining or otherwise.
Mined cryptocurrency
Blockchains that utilize a proof-of-work consensus mechanism require mining. They make use of miners for approving inputs. Whenever transactions rise for verification, miners begin competing to solve a 64-digit hexadecimal number.
The first to find the solution broadcasts it across the network as proof of work. This victory rewards the winner while others wait for the next challenge.
Bitcoin and Ethereum use proof of work along with many others. Therefore, they need mining to check for double spending.