Bitcoin for the Befuddled

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last couple of years, you’ve probably heard of Bitcoin—the game-changing digital currency used by millions worldwide.

But Bitcoin isn’t just another way to buy stuff. It’s an anonymous, revolutionary, cryptographically secure currency that functions without the oversight of a central authority or government. If you want to get into the Bitcoin game but find yourself a little confused, Bitcoin for the Befuddled may be just what you’re looking for. Learn what Bitcoin is; how it works; and how to acquire, store, and spend bitcoins safely and securely.

You’ll also learn:

• Bitcoin’s underlying cryptographic principles, and how bitcoins are created
• The history of Bitcoin and its potential impact on trade and commerce
• All about the blockchain, the public ledger of Bitcoin transactions
• How to choose a bitcoin wallet that’s safe and easy to use
• How to accept bitcoins as payment in your physical store or on your website
• Advanced topics, including Bitcoin mining and Bitcoin programming

With its non-technical language and patient, step-by-step approach to this fascinating currency, Bitcoin for the Befuddled is your ticket to getting started with Bitcoin. Get out from under the rock and get in the Bitcoin game. Just make sure not to lose your shirt.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: What Is Bitcoin?
Chapter 2: Bitcoin Basics
Chapter 3: Storing Your Bitcoins Safely, Securely, and Conveniently
Chapter 4: Buying Bitcoins
Chapter 5: Lost at Sea: A Cryptographic Adventure
Chapter 6: Why Bitcoin Is a Big Deal
Chapter 7: The Cryptography Behind Bitcoin
Chapter 8: Bitcoin Mining
Chapter 9: Understanding the Different Types of Bitcoin Wallets
Chapter 10: Bitcoin 2030

Appendix A: Hello Money! A Simple JavaScript Program
Appendix B: Bitcoin Programming with BitcoinJ