Bitcoin Wiki - User contributions [en]

Help:FAQ

2013-03-20T09:55:34Z

Bernard75: /* How can I get bitcoins? */

Here you will find answers to the most commonly asked questions.

== General ==
=== What are bitcoins? ===
Bitcoins are the unit of currency of the Bitcoin system. A commonly used shorthand for this is “BTC” to refer to a price or amount (eg: “100 BTC”).
There are such things as [[physical bitcoins]], but ultimately, a bitcoin is just a number associated with a [[Address|Bitcoin Address]]. A physical bitcoin is simply an object, such as a coin, with the number carefully embedded inside. See also an [[Introduction|easy intro]] to bitcoin.

=== How can I get bitcoins? ===

There are a variety of ways to acquire bitcoins:

* Accept bitcoins as payment for goods or services.
* The most common way to buy bitcoins are the [[Buying bitcoins|Bitcoin Exchanges]]
* There are several services where you can [[Buying_Bitcoins_(the_noob_version)|trade them]] for traditional currency.
* Find someone to trade cash for bitcoins in-person through a [https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/Category:Directories local directory].
* Participate in a [[Pooled mining|mining pool]].
* If you have a lot of mining hardware, you can solo mine and attempt to create a new [[block]] (currently yields 25 bitcoins plus transaction fees).

===Does Bitcoin guarantee an influx of free money?===

Since Bitcoin is a new technology, what it is and how it works may be initially unclear. Bitcoin is sometimes presented as being one of three things:
<ol style="list-style-type: upper-alpha;">
<li>Some sort of online 'get-rich-quick' scam.</li>
<li>A loophole in the market economy, the installation of which guarantees a steady influx of cash.</li>
<li>A sure investment that will almost certainly yield a profit.</li>
</ol>
In fact, none of the above are true. Let's look at them independently.

;Is Bitcoin a 'get-rich-quick' scheme?
:If you've spent much time on the Internet, you've probably seen ads for many 'get-rich-quick' schemes. These ads usually promise huge profits for a small amounts of easy work. Such schemes are usually pyramid/matrix-style schemes that make money from their own employees and offer nothing of any real value. Most convince one to buy packages that will make them earn hundreds a day, which in fact have the buyer distribute more such ads, and make minute profits.

:Bitcoin is in no way similar to these schemes. Bitcoin doesn't promise windfall profits. There is no way for the developers to make money from your involvement or to take money from you. That bitcoins are nearly impossible to acquire without the owner's consent represents one of its greatest strengths. Bitcoin is an experimental, virtual currency that may succeed or may fail. None of its developers expect to get rich off of it.

:A more detailed answer to this question can be found [http://bitcointalk.org/?topic=7815.0 here].

;Will I make money by installing the client?
:Most people who use Bitcoin don't earn anything by doing so, and the default client has no built-in way to earn Bitcoins. A small minority of people with dedicated, high-performance hardware do earn some Bitcoins by "''mining''" (generating new bitcoins, see [[#What is mining?|What is mining?]]) with special software, but joining Bitcoin shouldn't be construed as being the road to riches. Most Bitcoin users get involved because they find the project conceptually interesting and don't earn anything by doing so. This is also why you won't find much speculation about the political or economic repercussions of Bitcoin anywhere on this site: Bitcoin developers owe their dedication to the project's intellectual yieldings more than to those of a monetary nature. Bitcoin is still taking its first baby steps; it may go on to do great things but right now it only has something to offer those chasing conceptually interesting projects or bleeding edge technology.

;As an investment, is Bitcoin a sure thing?
:Bitcoin is a new and interesting electronic currency, the value of which is not backed by any single government or organization. Like other currencies, it is worth something partly because people are willing to trade it for goods and services. Its exchange rate fluctuates continuously, and sometimes wildly. It lacks wide acceptance and is vulnerable to manipulation by parties with modest funding. Security incidents such as website and account compromise may trigger major sell-offs. Other fluctuations can build into positive feedback loops cause much larger exchange rate fluctuations. Anyone who puts money into Bitcoin should take measures to reduce their risk and consider it as a high-risk currency. Later, as Bitcoin becomes better known and more widely accepted, it should stabilize, but for the time being it is unpredictable. Any investment in Bitcoin should be done carefully and with a clear plan to manage risk.

=== Can I buy bitcoins with Paypal? ===

It is possible to buy [[physical bitcoins]] with PayPal but it is otherwise difficult and/or expensive to do so, because of significant risk to the seller.

While it is possible to find an individual who wishes to sell Bitcoin to you via Paypal, (perhaps via [http://www.bitcoin-otc.com/ #bitcoin-otc] ) most exchanges do not allow funding through PayPal. This is due to repeated cases where someone pays for bitcoins with Paypal receives their bitcoins, and then fraudulently complains to Paypal that they never received their purchase. PayPal often sides with the fraudulent buyer in this case which means any seller would need to cover that risk with higher fees or refuse to accept PayPal altogether.

Buying Bitcoins from individuals with this method is still possible, but requires the seller to have some trust that the buyer will not file a claim with PayPal to reverse the payment.

=== Where can I find a forum to discuss Bitcoin? ===

Please visit the [[Bitcoin:Community_portal#Bitcoin_Community_Forums_on_various_platforms|Community Portal]] for links to Bitcoin-related forums.

=== How are new bitcoins created? ===

[[File:total_bitcoins_over_time_graph.png|thumb|Number of bitcoins over time, assuming a perfect 10-minute interval.]]
New bitcoins are generated by the network through the process of "[[#What is mining?|''mining'']]". In a process that is similar to a continuous raffle draw, mining nodes on the network are awarded bitcoins each time they find the solution to a certain mathematical problem (and thereby create a new [[block]]). Creating a block is a [[proof of work]] with a difficulty that varies with the overall strength of the network. The reward for solving a block is [[Controlled Currency Supply|automatically adjusted]] so that in roughly the first four years of operation of the Bitcoin network, {{formatnum:10500000}} BTC will be created. This amount is halved each four years, so it will be {{formatnum:5250000}} over years 4-8, {{formatnum:2625000}} over years 8-12, and so on. Thus the total number of bitcoins in existence will not exceed {{formatnum:21000000}}. See [[Controlled Currency Supply]].

Blocks are [[Mining|mined]] every 10 minutes, on average and for the first four years ({{formatnum:210000}} blocks) each block includes 50 new bitcoins. As the amount of processing power directed at mining changes, the difficulty of creating new bitcoins changes. This difficulty factor is calculated every 2016 blocks and is based upon the time taken to generate the previous 2016 blocks. See [[Mining]].

=== What's the current total number of bitcoins in existence? ===

[http://blockexplorer.com/q/totalbc Current count]. Also see [https://blockchain.info/charts/total-bitcoins Total bitcoins in circulation chart]

The number of blocks times the coin value of a block is the number of coins in existence. The coin value of a block is 50 BTC for each of the first {{formatnum:210000}} blocks, 25 BTC for the next {{formatnum:210000}} blocks, then 12.5 BTC, 6.25 BTC and so on.

=== How divisible are bitcoins? ===

A bitcoin can be divided down to 8 decimal places. Therefore, 0.00000001 BTC is the smallest amount that can be handled in a transaction. If necessary, the protocol and related software can be modified to handle even smaller amounts.

=== What do I call the various denominations of bitcoins? ===

There is a lot of discussion about the naming of these fractions of bitcoins. The leading candidates are:

* 1 BTC = 1 bitcoin
* 0.01 BTC = 1 cBTC = 1 centibitcoin (also referred to as bitcent)
* 0.001 BTC = 1 mBTC = 1 millibitcoin (also referred to as mbit (pronounced em-bit) or millibit or even bitmill)
* 0.000 001 BTC = 1 μBTC = 1 microbitcoin (also referred to as ubit (pronounced yu-bit) or microbit)

The above follows the accepted international SI prefixes for hundredths, thousandths, and millionths. There are many arguments against the special case of 0.01 BTC since it is unlikely to represent anything meaningful as the Bitcoin economy grows (it certainly won't be the equivalent of 0.01 USD, GBP or EUR). Equally, the inclusion of existing national currency denominations such as "cent", "nickel", "dime", "pence", "pound", "kopek" and so on are to be discouraged; this is a worldwide currency.

One exception is the "satoshi" which is smallest denomination currently possible

* 0.000 000 01 BTC = 1 satoshi (pronounced sa-toh-shee)
which is so named in honour of Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonym of the inventor of Bitcoin.

For an overview of all defined units of Bitcoin (including less common and niche units), see [[Units]].

Further discussion on this topic can be found on the forums here:

* [https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=14438.msg195287#msg195287 We need names]
* [https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=8282.0 What to call 0.001 BTC]

=== How does the halving work when the number gets really small? ===

Eventually the reward will go from 0.00000001 BTC to zero and no more bitcoins will be created.

The block reward calculation is done as a right bitwise shift of a 64-bit signed integer, which means it is divided by two and rounded down. The integer is equal to the value in BTC * 100,000,000 since internally in the reference client software, all Bitcoin balances and values are stored as unsigned integers.

With an initial block reward of 50 BTC, it will take many 4-year periods for the block reward to reach zero.

=== How long will it take to generate all the coins? ===

The last block that will generate coins will be block #6,929,999 which should be generated at or near the year 2140. The total number of coins in circulation will then remain static at 20,999,999.9769 BTC.

Even if the allowed precision is expanded from the current 8 decimals, the total BTC in circulation will always be slightly below 21 million (assuming everything else stays the same). For example, with 16 decimals of precision, the end total would be 20,999,999.999999999496 BTC.

=== If no more coins are going to be generated, will more blocks be created? ===

Absolutely! Even before the creation of coins ends, the use of [[transaction fee|transaction fees]] will likely make creating new blocks more valuable from the fees than the new coins being created. When coin generation ends, these fees will sustain the ability to use bitcoins and the Bitcoin network. There is no practical limit on the number of blocks that will be mined in the future.

=== But if no more coins are generated, what happens when Bitcoins are lost? Won't that be a problem? ===

Because of the law of supply and demand, when fewer bitcoins are available the ones that are left will be in higher demand, and therefore will have a higher value. So, as Bitcoins are lost, the remaining bitcoins will eventually increase in value to compensate. As the value of a bitcoin increases, the number of bitcoins required to purchase an item '''de'''creases. This is a [[Deflationary spiral|deflationary economic model]]. As the average transaction size reduces, transactions will probably be denominated in sub-units of a bitcoin such as millibitcoins ("Millies") or microbitcoins ("Mikes").

The Bitcoin protocol uses a base unit of one hundred-millionth of a Bitcoin ("a Satoshi"), but unused bits are available in the protocol fields that could be used to denote even smaller subdivisions.

=== If every transaction is broadcast via the network, does Bitcoin scale? ===
The Bitcoin protocol allows lightweight clients that can use Bitcoin without downloading the entire transaction history. As traffic grows and this becomes more critical, implementations of the concept will be developed. Full network nodes will at some point become a more specialized service.

With some modifications to the software, full Bitcoin nodes could easily keep up with both VISA and MasterCard combined, using only fairly modest hardware (a single high end server by todays standards). It is worth noting that the MasterCard network is structured somewhat like Bitcoin itself - as a peer to peer broadcast network.

Learn more about [[Scalability]].

==Economy==
=== Where does the value of Bitcoin stem from? What backs up Bitcoin? ===
Bitcoins have value because they are useful and because they are [[Controlled Currency Supply|scarce]]. As they are accepted by more merchants, their value will [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sticky_%28economics%29 stabilize]. See the [[Trade|list of Bitcoin-accepting sites]].

When we say that a currency is backed up by gold, we mean that there's a promise in place that you can exchange the currency for gold. Bitcoins, like dollars and euros, are not backed up by anything except the variety of merchants that accept them.

It's a common misconception that Bitcoins gain their value from the cost of electricity required to generate them. Cost doesn't equal value – hiring 1,000 men to shovel a big hole in the ground may be costly, but not valuable. Also, even though scarcity is a critical requirement for a useful currency, it alone doesn't make anything valuable. For example, your fingerprints are scarce, but that doesn't mean they have any exchange value.

Alternatively it needs to be added that while the law of supply and demand applies it does not guarantee value of Bitcoins in the future. If confidence in Bitcoins is lost then it will not matter that the supply can no longer be increased, the demand will fall off with all holders trying to get rid of their coins. An example of this can be seen in cases of state currencies, in cases when the state in question dissolves and so no new supply of the currency is available (the central authority managing the supply is gone), however the demand for the currency falls sharply because confidence in its purchasing power disappears. Of-course Bitcoins do not have such central authority managing the supply of the coins, but it does not prevent confidence from eroding due to other situations that are not necessarily predictable.

=== Is Bitcoin a bubble? ===
Yes, in the same way as the euro and dollar are. They only have value in exchange and have no inherent value. If everyone suddenly stopped accepting your dollars, euros or bitcoins, the "bubble" would burst and their value would drop to zero. But that is unlikely to happen: even in Somalia, where the government collapsed 20 years ago, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somali_shilling Somali shillings] are still accepted as payment.

=== Is Bitcoin a Ponzi scheme? ===
In a Ponzi Scheme, the founders persuade investors that they’ll profit. Bitcoin does not make such a guarantee. There is no central entity, just individuals building an economy.

A ponzi scheme is a zero sum game. Early adopters can only profit at the expense of late adopters. Bitcoin has possible win-win outcomes. Early adopters profit from the rise in value. Late adopters, and indeed, society as a whole, benefit from the usefulness of a stable, fast, inexpensive, and widely accepted p2p currency.

The fact that early adopters benefit more doesn't alone make anything a Ponzi scheme. All good investments in successful companies have this quality.

=== Doesn't Bitcoin unfairly benefit early adopters? ===
Early adopters have a large number of bitcoins now because they took a risk and invested resources in an unproven technology. By so doing, they have helped Bitcoin become what it is now and what it will be in the future (hopefully, a ubiquitous decentralized digital currency). It is only fair they will reap the benefits of their successful investment.

In any case, any bitcoin generated will probably change hands dozens of time as a medium of exchange, so the profit made from the initial distribution will be insignificant compared to the total commerce enabled by Bitcoin.

Since the pricing of Bitcoins has fallen greatly from its June 2011 peak, prices today are much more similar to those enjoyed by many early adopters. Those who are buying Bitcoins today likely believe that Bitcoin will grow significantly in the future. Setting aside the brief opportunity to have sold Bitcoins at the June 2011 peak enjoyed by few, the early-adopter window is arguably still open.

===Won't loss of wallets and the finite amount of Bitcoins create excessive deflation, destroying Bitcoin? ===
Worries about Bitcoin being destroyed by deflation are not entirely unfounded. Unlike most currencies, which experience inflation as their founding institutions create more and more units, Bitcoin will likely experience gradual deflation with the passage of time. Bitcoin is unique in that only a small amount of units will ever be produced (twenty-one million to be exact), this number has been known since the project's inception, and the units are created at a predicable rate.

Also, Bitcoin users are faced with a danger that doesn't threaten users of any other currency: if a Bitcoin user loses his wallet, his money is gone forever, unless he finds it again. And not just to him; it's gone completely out of circulation, rendered utterly inaccessible to anyone. As people will lose their wallets, the total number of Bitcoins will slowly decrease.

Therefore, Bitcoin seems to be faced with a unique problem. Whereas most currencies inflate over time, Bitcoin will mostly likely do the just the opposite. Time will see the irretrievable loss of an ever-increasing number of Bitcoins. An already small number will be permanently whittled down further and further. And as there become fewer and fewer Bitcoins, the laws of supply and demand suggest that their value will probably continually rise.

Thus Bitcoin is bound to once again stray into mysterious territory, because no one exactly knows what happens to a currency that grows continually more valuable. Economists generally agree that a low level of inflation is a good thing for a currency, but nobody is quite sure about what might happens to one that continually deflates. Although deflation could hardly be called a rare phenomenon, steady, constant deflation is unheard of. There may be a lot of speculation, no one has any hard data to back up their claims.

That being said, there is a mechanism in place to combat the obvious consequences. Extreme deflation would render most currencies highly impractical: if a single Canadian dollar could suddenly buy the holder a car, how would one go about buying bread or candy? Even pennies would fetch more than a person could carry. Bitcoin, however, offers a simple and stylish solution: infinite divisibility. Bitcoins can be divided up and trade into as small of pieces as one wants, so no matter how valuable Bitcoins become, one can trade them in practical quantities.

In fact, infinite divisibility should allow Bitcoins to function in cases of extreme wallet loss. Even if, in the far future, so many people have lost their wallets that only a single Bitcoin, or a fraction of one, remains, Bitcoin should continue to function just fine. No one can claim to be sure what is going to happen, but deflation may prove to present a smaller threat than many expect.

For more information, see the [[Deflationary spiral]] page.

=== What if someone bought up all the existing Bitcoins? ===
Bitcoin markets are competitive -- meaning the price of a bitcoin will rise or fall depending on supply and demand at certain price levels. Only a fraction of bitcoins issued to date are found on the exchange markets for sale. So even though technically a buyer with lots of money could buy all the bitcoins offered for sale, unless those holding the rest of the bitcoins offer them for sale as well, even the wealthiest, most determined buyer can't get at them.

Additionally, new currency continues to be issued daily and will continue to do so for decades though over time the rate at which they are issued declines to insignificant levels. Those who are mining aren't obligated to sell their bitcoins so not all bitcoins will make it to the markets even.

This situation doesn't suggest, however, that the markets aren't vulnerable to price manipulation. It doesn't take significant amounts of money to move the market price up or down and thus Bitcoin remains a volatile asset.

===What if someone creates a new block chain, or a new digital currency that renders Bitcoin obsolete?===

That the block chain cannot be easily forked represents one of the central security mechanisms of Bitcoin. Given the choice between two block chains, a Bitcoin miner always chooses the longer one - that is to say, the one with the more complex hash. Thusly, it ensures that each user can only spend their bitcoins once, and that no user gets ripped off.

As a consequence of the block chain structure, there may at any time be many different sub-branches, and the possibility always exists of a transaction being over-written by the longest branch, if it has been recorded in a shorter one. The older a transaction is though, the lower its chances of being over-written, and the higher of becoming permanent. Although the block chain prevents one from spending more Bitcoins than one has, it means that transactions can be accidentally nullified.

A new block chain would leave the network vulnerable to [[double-spending|double-spend]] attacks. However, the creation of a viable new chain presents considerable difficulty, and the possibility does not present much of a risk.

Bitcoin will always choose the longer Block Chain and determines the relative length of two branches by the complexities of their hashes. Since the hash of each new block is made from that of the block preceding it, to create a block with a more complex hash, one must be prepared to do more computation than has been done by the entire Bitcoin network from the fork point up to the newest of the blocks one is trying to supersede. Needless to say, such an undertaking would require a very large amount of processing power and since Bitcoin is continually growing and expanding, it will likely only require more with the passage of time.

A much more distinct and real threat to the Bitcoin use is the development of other, superior virtual currencies, which could supplant Bitcoin and render it obsolete and valueless.

A great deal of careful thought and ingenuity has gone into the development of Bitcoin, but it is the first of its breed, a prototype, and vulnerable to more highly-evolved competitors. At present, any threatening rivals have yet to rear its head; Bitcoin remains the first and foremost private virtual currency, but we can offer no guarantees that it will retain that position. It would certainly be in keeping with internet history for similar system built from the same principles to supersede and cast Bitcoin into obsolescence, after time had revealed its major shortcomings. Friendster and Myspace suffered similar fates at the hand of Facebook, Napster was ousted by Limeware, Bearshare and torrent applications, and Skype has all but crushed the last few disciples of the Microsoft Messenger army.

This may sound rather foreboding, so bear in mind that introduction of new and possibly better virtual currencies will not necessarily herald Bitcoin's demise. If Bitcoin establishes itself sufficiently firmly before the inception of the next generation of private, online currencies as to gain widespread acceptance and general stability, future currencies may pose little threat even if they can claim superior design.

==Sending and Receiving Payments==

=== Why do I have to wait 10 minutes before I can spend money I received? ===

10 minutes is the average time taken to find a block. It can be significantly more or less time than that depending on luck; 10 minutes is simply the average case.

You can see how long all other recent transactions have taken here: [http://bitcoinstats.org/ BitcoinStats.org].

[[Blocks]] (shown as "confirmations" in the GUI) are how the Bitcoin achieves consensus on who owns what. Once a block is found everyone agrees that you now own those coins, so you can spend them again. Until then it's possible that some network nodes believe otherwise, if somebody is attempting to defraud the system by reversing a transaction. The more confirmations a transaction has, the less risk there is of a reversal. Only 6 blocks or 1 hour is enough to make reversal computationally impractical. This is dramatically better than credit cards which can see chargebacks occur up to three months after the original transaction!

Ten minutes was specifically chosen by [[Satoshi]] as a tradeoff between propagation time of new blocks in large networks and the amount of work wasted due to chain splits. For a more technical explanation, see Satoshi's [http://www.bitcoin.org/bitcoin.pdf original technical paper].

[[File:TransactionConfirmationTimesExample.PNG]]

=== Do you have to wait until my transactions are confirmed in order to buy or sell things with Bitcoin? ===

YES, you do, IF the transaction is non-recourse. The Bitcoin reference software does not display transactions as confirmed until six blocks have passed (confirmations). As transactions are burred in the chain they become increasingly non-reversible but are very reversible before the first confirmation. Two to six confirmations are recommended for non-recourse situations depending on the value of the transactions involved.

When people ask this question they are usually thinking about applications like supermarkets. This generally is a recourse situation: if somebody tries to double-spend on a face-to-face transaction it might work a few times, but probabalistically speaking eventually one of the double-spends will get noticed, and the penalty for shoplifting charges in most localities is calibrated to be several times worse than the proceeds of a single shoplifting event.

Double-spends might be a concern for something like a snack machine in a low-traffic area with no nearby security cameras. Such a machine shouldn't honor 0-confirmation payments, and should instead use some other mechanism of clearing Bitcoin or validating transactions against reversal, see the wiki article [[Myths#Point_of_sale_with_bitcoins_isn.27t_possible_because_of_the_10_minute_wait_for_confirmation|here]] for alternatives.

Applications that require immediate payment processing, like supermarkets or snack machines, need to manage the risks. Here is one way to reverse an unconfirmed payment:

A [[Double-spending#Finney_attack|Finney attack]], in which an attacker mines a block containing a movement of some coins back to themselves. Once they find a block solution, they quickly go to a merchant and make a purchase, then broadcast the block, thus taking back the coins. This attack is a risk primarily for goods that are dispatched immediately, like song downloads or currency trades. Because the attacker can't choose the time of the attack, it isn't a risk for merchants such as supermarkets where you can't choose exactly when to pay (due to queues, etc). The attack can fail if somebody else finds a block containing the purchasing transaction before you release your own block, therefore, merchants can reduce but not eliminate the risk by making purchasers wait some length of time that's less than a confirm.

Because pulling off this attack is not trivial, merchants who need to sell things automatically and instantly are most likely to just price the cost of reversal fraud in, or use insurance.

=== I was sent some bitcoins and they haven't arrived yet! Where are they? ===

Don't panic! There are a number of reasons why your bitcoins might not show up yet, and a number of ways to diagnose them.

The latest version of the Bitcoin-Qt client tells you how far it has yet to go in downloading the blockchain. Hover over the icon in the bottom right corner of the client to learn your client's status.

If it has not caught up then it's possible that your transaction hasn't been included in a block yet.

You can check pending transactions in the network by going [http://blockchain.info here] and then searching for your address. If the transaction is listed here then it's a matter of waiting until it gets included in a block before it will show in your client.

If the transaction is based on a coin that was in a recent transaction then it could be considered a low priority transaction. Transfers can take longer if the transaction fee paid was not high enough. If there is no fee at all the transfer can get a very low priority and take hours or even days to be included in a block.

=== Why does my Bitcoin address keep changing? ===

Whenever the address listed in "Your address" receives a transaction, Bitcoin replaces it with a new address. This is meant to encourage you to use a new address for every transaction, which enhances [[anonymity]]. All of your old addresses are still usable: you can see them in ''Settings -> Your Receiving Addresses''.

===How much will the transaction fee be?===

Some transactions might require a [[transaction fee]] for them to get confirmed in a timely manner. The transaction fee is processed by and received by the bitcoin miner. The most recent version of the Bitcoin client will estimate an appropriate fee when a fee might be required.

The fee is added to the payment amount. For example, if you are sending a 1.234 BTC payment and the client requires a 0.0005 BTC fee, then 1.2345 BTC will be subtracted from the wallet balance for the entire transaction and the address for where the payment was sent will receive a payment of 1.234 BTC.

A fee might be imposed because your transaction looks like a denial of service attack to the Bitcoin system. For example, it might be burdensome to transmit or it might recycle Bitcoins you recently received. The wallet software attempts to avoid generating burdensome transactions, but it isn't always able to do so: The funds in your wallet might be new or composed of many tiny payments.

Because the fee is related to the amount of data that makes up the transaction and not to the amount of Bitcoins being sent, the fee may seem extremely low (0.0005 BTC for a 1,000 BTC transfer) or unfairly high (0.004 BTC for a 0.02 BTC payment, or about 20%). If you are receiving tiny amounts (''e.g.'' as small payments from a mining pool) then fees when sending will be higher than if your activity follows the pattern of conventional consumer or business transactions.

As of Bitcoin 0.5.3 the required fee will not be higher than 0.05 BTC. For most users there is usually no required fee at all. If a fee is required it will most commonly be 0.0005 BTC.

=== What happens when someone sends me a bitcoin but my computer is powered off? ===

Bitcoins are not actually "sent" to your wallet; the software only uses that term so that we can use the currency without having to learn new concepts. Your wallet is only needed when you wish to spend coins that you've received.

If you are sent coins when your wallet client program is not running, and you later launch the wallet client program, the coins will eventually appear as if they were just received in the wallet. That is to say, when the client program is started it must download blocks and catch up with any transactions it did not already know about.

=== How long does "synchronizing" take when the Bitcoin client is first installed? What's it doing? ===

The popular Bitcoin client software from bitcoin.org implements a "full" Bitcoin node: It can carry out all the duties of the Bitcoin P2P system, it isn't simply a "client". One of the principles behind the operation of full Bitcoin nodes is that they don't assume that the other participants have followed the rules of the Bitcoin system. During synchronization, the software is processing historical Bitcoin transactions and making sure for itself that all of the rules of the system have been correctly followed.

In normal operation, after synchronizing, the software should use a hardly noticeable amount of your computer's resources.

When the wallet client program is first installed, its initial validation requires a lot of work from your computer's hard disk, so the amount of time to synchronize depends on your disk speed and, to a lesser extent, your CPU speed. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a day or so. On a slow computer it could take more than 40 hours of continuous synchronization, so check your computer's power-saving settings to ensure that it does not turn its hard disk off when unattended for a few hours. You can use the Bitcoin software during synchronization, but you may not see recent payments to you until the client program has caught up to the point where those transactions happened.

If you feel that this process takes too long, you can download a pre-synchronized blockchain from [http://eu2.bitcoincharts.com/blockchain/ http://eu2.bitcoincharts.com/blockchain/]. Alternatively, you can try an alternative "lite" client such as Multibit or a super-light client like electrum, though these clients have somewhat weaker security, are less mature, and don't contribute to the health of the P2P network.

==Networking==
=== Do I need to configure my firewall to run Bitcoin? ===

Bitcoin will connect to other nodes, usually on TCP port 8333. You will need to allow outgoing TCP connections to port 8333 if you want to allow your Bitcoin client to connect to many nodes. [[Testnet]] uses TCP port 18333 instead of 8333.

If you want to restrict your firewall rules to a few IPs, you can find stable nodes in the [[Fallback Nodes|fallback nodes list]].

=== How does the peer finding mechanism work? ===

Bitcoin finds peers primarily by forwarding peer announcements within its own network and each node saves a database of peers that it's aware of, for future use. In order to bootstrap this process Bitcoin needs a list of initial peers, these can be provided manually but normally it obtains them by querying a set of DNS domain names which have automatically updated lists, if that doesn't work it falls back to a built-in list which is updated from time to time in new versions of the software. There is also an IRC based mechanism but it is disabled by default.

==Mining==
===What is mining?===
[[Mining]] is the process of spending computation power to secure Bitcoin transactions against reversal and introducing new Bitcoins to the system.

Technically speaking, mining is the calculation of a [[hash]] of the a block header, which includes among other things a reference to the previous block, a hash of a set of transactions and a [[nonce]]. If the hash value is found to be less than the current [[target]] (which is inversely proportional to the [[difficulty]]), a new block is formed and the miner gets the newly generated Bitcoins (25 per block at current levels). If the hash is not less than the current target, a new nonce is tried, and a new hash is calculated. This is done millions of times per second by each miner.

===Is mining used for some useful computation?===
The computations done when mining are internal to Bitcoin and not related to any other distributed computing projects. They serve the purpose of securing the Bitcoin network, which is useful.

===Is it not a waste of energy?===
Spending energy on creating and securing a free monetary system is hardly a waste. Also, services necessary for the operation of currently widespread monetary systems, such as banks and credit card companies, also spend energy, arguably more than Bitcoin would.

===Why don't we use calculations that are also useful for some other purpose?===
To provide security for the Bitcoin network, the calculations involved need to have some [http://bitcoin.stackexchange.com/questions/5617/why-are-bitcoin-calculation-useless/5618#5618 very specific features]. These features are incompatible with leveraging the computation for other purposes.

===How can we stop miners from creating zero transaction blocks?===
The incentive for miners to include transactions is in the fees that come along with them. If we were to implement some minimum number of transactions per block it would be trivial for a miner to create and include transactions merely to surpass that threshold. As the network matures, the block reward drops, and miners become more dependent on transactions fees to pay their costs, the problem of zero transaction blocks should diminish over time.

===How does the proof-of-work system help secure Bitcoin?===
To give a general idea of the mining process, imagine this setup:

payload = <some data related to things happening on the Bitcoin network>
nonce = 1
hash = [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SHA2 SHA2]( [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SHA2 SHA2]( payload + nonce ) )

The work performed by a miner consists of repeatedly increasing "nonce" until
the hash function yields a value, that has the rare property of being below a certain
target threshold. (In other words: The hash "starts with a certain number of zeroes",
if you display it in the fixed-length representation, that is typically used.)

As can be seen, the mining process doesn't compute anything special. It merely
tries to find a number (also referred to as nonce) which - in combination with the payload -
results in a hash with special properties.

The advantage of using such a mechanism consists of the fact, that it is very easy to check a result: Given the payload and a specific nonce, only a single call of the hashing function is needed to verify that the hash has the required properties. Since there is no known way to find these hashes other than brute force, this can be used as a "proof of work" that someone invested a lot of computing power to find the correct nonce for this payload.

This feature is then used in the Bitcoin network to secure various aspects. An attacker
that wants to introduce malicious payload data into the network, will need to do the
required proof of work before it will be accepted. And as long as honest miners have more
computing power, they can always outpace an attacker.

Also see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hashcash Hashcash] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proof-of-work_system Proof-of-work system] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SHA2 SHA2] and on Wikipedia.

===Why was the "Generate coin" option of the client software removed?===

In the early days of Bitcoin, it was easy for anyone to find new blocks using standard CPUs. As more and more people started mining, the [[difficulty]] of finding new blocks has greatly increased to the point where the average time for a CPU to find a single block can be many years. The only cost-effective method of [[Mining|mining]] is using a high-end graphics card with special software (see also [[Why a GPU mines faster than a CPU]]) and/or joining a [[Bitcoin Pool|mining pool]]. Since solo CPU mining is essentially useless, it was removed from the GUI of the Bitcoin software.

==Security==

===Could miners collude to give themselves money or to fundamentally change the nature of Bitcoin?===

There are two questions in here. Let's look at them separately.

;Could miners gang up and give themselves money?

Mining itself is the process of creating new blocks in the block chain. Each block contains a list of all the transactions that have taken place across the entire Bitcoin network since the last block was created, as well as a hash of the previous block. New blocks are 'mined', or rather, generated, by Bitcoin clients correctly guessing sequences of characters in codes called 'hashes,' which are created using information from previous blocks. Bitcoin users may download specialized 'mining' software, which allows them to dedicate some amount of their processing power – however large or small – to guessing at strings within the hash of the previous block. Whoever makes the right guess first, thus creating a new block, receives a reward in Bitcoins.

The block chain is one of the two structures that makes Bitcoin secure, the other being the public-key encryption system on which Bitcoin trade is based. The block chain assures that not only is every single transaction that ever takes place recorded, but that every single transaction is recorded on the computer of anyone who chooses to store the relevant information. Many, many users have complete records of every transaction in Bitcoins history readily available to them at any point, and anyone who wants in the information can obtain it with ease. These things make Bitcoin very hard to fool.

The Bitcoin network takes considerable processing power to run, and since those with the most processing power can make the most guesses, those who put the most power toward to sustaining the network earn the most currency. Each correct guess yields, at present, fifty Bitcoins, and as Bitcoins are presently worth something (although the value still fluctuates) every miner who earns any number of Bitcoins makes money. Some miners pull in Bitcoins on their own; and some also join or form pools wherein all who contribute earn a share of the profits.

Therefore, first answer is a vehement “yes” – no only can miners collude to get more money, Bitcoin is designed to encourage them to do so. Bitcoin pools are communal affairs, and there is nothing dishonest or underhanded about them.

Of course, the real question is:

;Can they do so in ways not sanction by Bitcoin developers? Is there any way to rip off the network and make loads of money dishonestly?

Bitcoin isn't infallible. It can be cheated, but doing so is extremely difficult. Bitcoin was designed to evade some of the central problems with modern currencies – namely, that their trustworthiness hinges upon that of people who might not have users' best interests in mind. Every currency in the world (other than Bitcoin) is controlled by large institutions who keep track of what's done with it, and who can manipulate its value. And every other currency has value because people trust the institutions that control them.

Bitcoin doesn't ask that its users trust any institution. Its security is based on the cryptography that is an integral part of its structure, and that is readily available for any and all to see. Instead of one entity keeping track of transactions, the entire network does, so Bitcoins are astoundingly difficult to steal, or double-spend. Bitcoins are created in a regular and predictable fashion, and by many different users, so no one can decide to make a whole lot more and lessen their value. In short, Bitcoin is designed to be inflation-proof, double-spend-proof and completely distributed.

Nonetheless, there are a few ways that one can acquire Bitcoins dishonestly. Firstly, one can steal private keys. Key theft isn't something that Bitcoin security has been designed to prevent: it's up to users to keep theirs safe. But the cryptography is designed so that it is completely impossible to deduce someone's private key from their public one. As long as you keep your private key to yourself, you don't have much to worry about. Furthermore, one could theoretically create a new block chain, but due to the way in which the block chain is constructed, this would be extremely difficult and require massive amounts of processing power. A full explanation of the difficulties involved can be found in the [[block chain]] article.

Bitcoin can be ripped off – but doing so would be extremely hard and require considerable expertise and a staggering amount of processing power. And it's only going to get harder with time. Bitcoin isn't impenetrable, but it's close enough to put any real worries in the peripherals.

;Could miners fundamentally change the nature of Bitcoin?

Once again, almost certainly not.

Bitcoin is a distributed network, so any changes implemented to the system must be accepted by all users. Someone trying to change the way Bitcoins are generated would have to convince every user to download and use their software – so the only changes that would go through are those that would be equally benefit all users.

And thus, it is more or less impossible for anyone to change the function of Bitcoin to their advantage. If users don't like the changes, they won't adopt them, whereas if users do like them, then these will help everyone equally. Of course, one can conceive of a situation where someone manages to get a change pushed through that provides them with an advantage that no one notices, but given that Bitcoin is structurally relatively simple, it is unlikely that any major changes will go through without someone noticing first.

The fact that such changes are so difficult to make testifies to the fully distributed nature of Bitcoin. Any centrally controlled currency can be modified by its central agency without the consent of its adherents. Bitcoin has no central authority, so it changes only at the behest of the whole community. Bitcoins development represents a kind of collective evolution; the first of its kind among currencies.

==Help==
===I'd like to learn more. Where can I get help?===

* Read the [[Introduction|introduction to bitcoin]]
* See the videos, podcasts, and blog posts from the [[Press]]
* Read and post on the [[Bitcoin:Community_portal#Bitcoin_Community_Forums|forums]]
* Chat on one of the [[Bitcoin:Community_portal#IRC_Chat|Bitcoin IRC]] channels
* Listen to [http://omegataupodcast.net/2011/03/59-bitcoin-a-digital-decentralized-currency/ this podcast], which goes into the details of how bitcoin works
* Ask questions on the [http://bitcoin.stackexchange.com Bitcoin Stack Exchange]

==See Also==

* [[Man page]]
* [[Introduction]]

[[de:FAQ]]
[[zh-cn:FAQ]]
[[fr:FAQ]]
[[ru:FAQ]]

[[Category:Technical]]
[[Category:Vocabulary]]

Buying Bitcoins (the newbie version)

2013-03-20T09:44:23Z

Bernard75: paranoia mode on + updates

This page aims to be the best resource for new users to understand how to buy Bitcoins.
The existing [[Buying bitcoins]] page is too complex, and not transparent enough for new investors.
Be extremely careful when buying bitcoins from not accredited websites or individuals. Like in the real world there are many scammers around.

== Intro ==
[http://bitcoin.stackexchange.com/questions/2293/how-can-i-buy-bitcoin-via-a-credit-card-or-paypal You can't reliably buy Bitcoins using PayPal or credit cards], because it is risky for the seller, and therefore few sellers will offer this. There are basically 4 reasons for that:
* The TOS of PayPal actually prohibit buying digital currency with it
* The buyer of bitcoins can always perform a chargeback and there is no way for the seller to contest that
* There are many hacked accounts and when PayPal realizes that such an account has been fraudulently used, they will also perform a chargeback
* PayPal doesn't like bitcoin, as the bitcoin network is in direct competition to it

There are several ways, depending on your location. Many sellers online will trade bitcoins for moneypak codes. See http://www.moneypak.com/

=== Via Bank Transfer (US) ===
[https://coinbase.com Coinbase] allows you to buy and sell bitcoin by connecting any U.S. bank account.

=== Via Bank Transfer (EU) ===
[https://bitcoin-24.com Bitcoin-24.com] charges very low fees for SEPA transfers within the EU.

=== Finding a direct seller online ===
If you can find another person that is willing to sell them to you, you can transfer him money via whatever method (including PayPal), and he'll send you the Bitcoins. The following websites can be used to find direct sellers online [[Bitcoin OTC]], [https://www.bitcoinary.com/ Bitcoinary] or the [https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?board=53.0 Currency Exchange Forum Section]. Be extremely cautious when using those methods, the best way is to ask an admin, moderator or a trusted person.

=== Physical Trading ===
You might be able to find an individual you can [https://localbitcoins.com Buy bitcoins locally].
Always choose somebody with many reviews.

=== Bitinstant ===
You can buy Bitcoins via cash deposit or bank transfer using [[BitInstant]]. Here is a video tutorial explaining BitInstant: http://vimeo.com/44849463

=== Exchanges ===
The largest and most trusted exchange is [[MtGox]]. For a list of other major exchanges see [[Buying_bitcoins#Major_Exchanges|Major Exchanges]]

=== Blockchain (UK) ===
UK users can use [https://blockchain.info/wallet/deposit-pingit Barclays PingIt] or [https://blockchain.info/wallet/deposit-bank-transfer Bank Transfer] to purchase bitcoins from blockchain.info.

=== Instant bank transfers within the EU and UK ===
Buy bitcoins via the instant Sofort network through [[Bitcoin-24]]. It is a very fast, easy and secure method to deposit Euro instantlly.

== Avoiding Scams ==
Before using any service it is a good idea to look for reviews and feedback from previous customers. This can be done by simply googling the name of the website or company. The bitcointalk forums are also a good place to find discussions and reviews about services.

== Links ==
* http://bitcoin.stackexchange.com/questions/91/how-do-you-obtain-bitcoins
* http://bitcoin.stackexchange.com/questions/4194/whats-the-best-way-to-buy-bitcoin-noob-friendly
* [[Buying bitcoins]]
* http://www.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/comments/nzg4o/the_canonical_newbie_guide_to_bitcoin/c3d5tmc

[[Category:Introduction]]

Bitcoin-24

2013-03-19T08:26:27Z

Bernard75: description added

Bitcoin-24.com is the biggest bitcoin exchange in Europe and is only surpassed by MtGox in terms of EURO volume.
They offer instant registration and trading and impose no restrictions and limits on withdrawals and deposits.
EUROs can be deposited instantly by credit card and bank transfer. You can also trade in USD, which can be added by credit card, bank wire and MtGox Code. Bitcoin-24.com is not charging any fees for Bitcoin transactions, which only need 3 confirmations to reach Bitcoin-24.com.

==Deposits==

===USD===
* Bank wire transfer (International)
* Credit card (instant through LiqPay)
* [[Redeemable code]] ([[MtGox]], VouchX) (fee applies)

===EUR===
* SEPA/Bank wire
* Sofort (instant within the EU)
* Credit card (instant through LiqPay)
* Redeemable Code (MtGox, VouchX) (fee applies)
* GIROPay

===GBP===
* Bank wire transfer (International) [Converts to EUR]

===PLN===
* Bank wire transfer (International) [Converts to EUR]

===BTC===
* Bitcoins may be deposited free of charge.

==Withdrawals==

===USD===
* ([[Skrill|Skrill (Moneybookers)]])
* Bank wire transfer (International)

===EUR===
* SEPA wire
* Cash (via DHL) (fee applies)

===BTC===
* A 0.0005 BTC transaction fee applies for each withdrawal of bitcoins.

==History==

* The exchange was first live in May, 2012.

==See Also==

* [[Buying bitcoins]]
* [[Selling bitcoins]]

==External Links==
* [http://www.Bitcoin-24.com Bitcoin-24.com] website

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Exchanges]]
[[Category:EWallets]]

IRC channels

2013-03-19T02:16:28Z

Bernard75: /* Communities for Exchanges and Trading */

Most of the following Bitcoin-related IRC channels are available on [http://www.freenode.net Freenode]:

==Bitcoin Project==
{| class="wikitable"
! Channel !! Description
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin}} || General Bitcoin-related discussion.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-dev}} || Bitcoin software development. ([http://bitcoinstats.com/irc/bitcoin-dev/logs/ history])
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-politics}} || Discuss politics with other Bitcoin users.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-gaming}} || Bitcoin gamers hangout.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bc-news}} || RSS News related to Bitcoin.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-marketing}} || Marketing and promotion of bitcoin
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-gentoo}} || Gentoo community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-watch|text=[[Bitcoin-Watch|#bitcoin-watch]]}} || Streaming Bitcoin transactions, including market data.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-bots}} || Bot and bot-related discussion; trading bots, IRC bots, utility bots.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-police}} || [[Bitcoin Police]] Investigates incidents related to Bitcoin.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-court}} || [[Bitcoin Court]] Settles disputes between parties.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-tweets}} || Automated announce of bitcoin-related tweets.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-church}} || [[Bitcoin Church]] Discussion of our savior Satoshi
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-wiki}} || [[Bitcoin.it Wiki]]
|}

===Local communities===

{| class="wikitable"
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-otc-eu}} || European OTC trading marketplace.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-ar}} || Argentina bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-aus}} || Aussie bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-at}} || Austrian bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-it}} || Italian bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-bra}} || Brazilian bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-cad}} || Canadian bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-cn}} || Chinese bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin.cz}} || Czech bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-de}} || German bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-dk}} || Danish bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-il}} || Israeli bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|btc.chat}} || Russian bitcoin community.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-otc-ru}} || Russian OTC trading marketplace.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-otc-uk}} ||United kingdom OTC Trading Marketplace.Founder Angus Bates.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-ve}} || Venezuela bitcoin community.

|}

==Mining Related Communities==

{| class="wikitable"
! Channel !! Description
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-mining}} || Discussion and support related to mining.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-fpga}} || Discussion and support specific to FPGA mining.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|btc.chat.miners}} || Russian discussion of mining specification.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|eligius}} || [[Eligius]] mining pool community
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|ozcoin}} || [[Ozco.in]] mining pool community
|-
| [irc://irc.foonetic.net/xkcd-bitcoin IRC] [http://irc.lc/foonetic/xkcd-bitcoin/Miner@@@ Web] #xkcd-bitcoin || [https://en.bitcoin.it/wiki/XKCD_Pool XKCD Pool]
|-
| [irc://irc.quakenet.org/bitcoins.lc IRC] [http://irc.lc/quakenet/bitcoins.lc/Miner@@@ Web] #bitcoins.lc @ Quakenet || [http://www.bitcoins.lc Bitcoins.lc Pool]
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bithasher}} || Bit Pool Mining
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|p2pool}} || [[P2Pool]] decentralized mining pool
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|btcserv}} || [[Btcserv.net]] Mining Pool Community
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitminter}} || [[BitMinter]] Mining Pool Community
|}

==Communities for Exchanges and Trading==

{| class="wikitable"
! Channel !! Description
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-assets}} || Discussion of securities and other asset investments, including those listed on [[GLBSE]] or [[MPEx]].
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-auction}} || Live auctions over IRC.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|GLBSE}} || Talk regarding the [[GLBSE]] trading platform.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-market}} || Streaming market data (only), no chat.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-otc|text=[[bitcoin-otc|#bitcoin-otc]]}} || Over-the-counter trading marketplace and discussion. ([http://bitcoinstats.com/irc/bitcoin-otc/logs/ history])
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-escrow}} || Third party escrow agents.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-otc-ticker|bitcoin-otc-ticker}} || Streaming market data form the [[#bitcoin-otc]] order book.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-pit}} || Only over-the-counter trading.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-wot|bitcoin-wot}} || Distributed Web of Trust (WoT) system for [[#bitcoin-otc]].
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|btc.chat.traders}} || Russian community discussion about trades/exchanges.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoinconsultancy}} || [[Bitcoin Consultancy]] discussion
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|#mtgox-chat}} || [[#MtGox]] chat (Note the pound sign (#) is part of the channel name)
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|mtgox}} || [[MtGox]] support
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|mtgoxlive}} || [[MtGox Live]] real-time view of trading
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|mtgox-news}} || Mt. Gox topics from Twitter.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|mtgox-rt}} || Mt. Gox real-time tape (executed trades).
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-rt}} || Real-time tape (executed trades).
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|intersango}} || [[Intersango]] exchange support
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitme}} || [[BitMe]] exchange support
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|Coinabul}} || [http://Coinabul.com Coinabul]'s customer support and news channel. Selling gold and silver for Bitcoin.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|btc24}} || [https://bitcoin-24.com Bitcoin-24.com] Euro community talk and Bitcoin-24.com support.
|}

==Related Communities==

{| class="wikitable"
! Channel !! Description
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|opentransactions}} || [[Open Transactions]] project.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|ripple}} || [http://Ripple.com Ripple] project.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|ripple-market}} || Market trading for [http://Ripple.com Ripple] project users.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|namecoin}} || [[Namecoin]] and the [[Dot-bit]] project.
|-
| {{Freenode IRC|bitcoin-stackexchange}} || Discussion complementing [http://bitcoin.stackexchange.com Bitcoin StackExchange].

|}

[[pl:Kanały IRC]]

Bitcoin-24

2013-03-19T02:03:50Z

Bernard75: Update of Bitcoin-24

The biggest bitcoin exchange in Europe.

==Deposits==

===USD===
* Bank wire transfer (International)
* Credit card (instant through LiqPay)
* [[Redeemable code]] ([[MtGox]], VouchX) (fee applies)

===EUR===
* SEPA/Bank wire
* Sofort (instant within the EU)
* Credit card (instant through LiqPay)
* Redeemable Code (MtGox, VouchX) (fee applies)
* GIROPay

===GBP===
* Bank wire transfer (International) [Converts to EUR]

===PLN===
* Bank wire transfer (International) [Converts to EUR]

===BTC===
Bitcoins may be deposited free of charge.

==Withdrawals==

===USD===
* ([[Skrill|Skrill (Moneybookers)]])
* Bank wire transfer (International)

===EUR===
* SEPA wire
* Cash (via DHL) (fee applies)

===BTC===
* A 0.0005 BTC transaction fee applies for each withdrawal of bitcoins.

==History==

The exchange was first live in May, 2012.

==See Also==

* [[Buying bitcoins]]
* [[Selling bitcoins]]

==External Links==
* [http://www.Bitcoin-24.com Bitcoin-24.com] website

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Exchanges]]
[[Category:EWallets]]

Selling bitcoins

2013-03-19T01:50:06Z

Bernard75: Update of Bitcoin-24 features

There are various methods for selling bitcoins.

Warning: Please be careful with your money. When sending bitcoins to an exchange or other counterparty you are trusting that the counterparty will not abscond with your bitcoins and that the operator maintains secure systems that protect against theft -- internal or external. It is recommended that you obtain the real-world identity of the counterparty and ensure that sufficient recourse is available. Exchanging or storing significant funds with exchanges is not recommended.

==Market Exchanges==
The best rates for selling medium to large amounts of bitcoins generally when withdrawing from an exchange using a cash method such as a bank transfer (ACH, EUR/SEPA).

{| class="wikitable"
|-
| Exchange || Adding Funds || Withdrawing Funds || [[eWallet]] || Notes
|-
| [[File:BIPS.gif|20px|link=https://bips.me]] [https://bips.me BIPS] ([[BIPS|info]]) || BTC CAD (Cash deposits in Canada) Any Currency (Wire Transfer - Any Country) USD (Liberty Reserve) || Danish Domestic Transfer Any Currency (ACH / Direct Deposit) Any Currency (Wire Transfer - Any Country) USD (Mt.Gox) || {{ Table Value Yes }} || <ul><li>DK-based</li><li>[https://github.com/BitcoinInternetPaymentSystem BIPS GitHub]</li><li>[https://bips.me/connect/BitcoinInternetPaymentSystemAPI.pdf REST API]</li></ul>
|-
| [[MtGox]] ||BTC BTC ([[Redeemable code]]) USD ([[Dwolla]]) USD (International bank wire) USD (Wire to [[AurumXChange Company|AurumXChange]]) AUD (Bank wire) GBP (Bank wire) GBP (Cash deposit, Barclays) USD (Redeemable code) Liberty Reserve USD (via AurumXChange) || BTC BTC (Redeemable code) USD ([[Dwolla]]) USD (Wire via [[AurumXChange Company|AurumXChange]]) AUD (Bank wire) USD (Redeemable code) Liberty Reserve USD (via AurumXChange) || {{Table Value Yes}} || Restrictions and limits on withdrawals.
|-
| [[VirWoX]] || BTC SLL (Second Life) ACD (Avination) OMC (OpenSim) USD,EUR,GBP,CHF ([[PayPal]]) USD,EUR,GBP (Credit & Debit cards via [[Skrill]]/Moneybookers) USD,EUR,GBP ([[NETELLER]]) EUR (DIRECTebanking / Sofortüberweisung) USD,EUR,GBP,CHF ([[paysafecard]]) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) || BTC SLL (Second Life) ACD (Avination) OMC (OpenSim) USD,EUR,GBP,CHF ([[PayPal]]) USD,EUR,GBP ([[Skrill]]/Moneybookers) USD,EUR,GBP ([[NETELLER]]) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} || Trading through Second Life Linden Dollars (highly liquid). Variable limits on PayPal and Credit Card deposits.
|-
| [[Intersango]]([[Britcoin]]) || BTC GBP (bank deposit) EUR (SEPA bank deposit) PLN (bank transfer) || BTC GBP (bank deposit) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) PLN (bank transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[BTC-E]] || BTC BTC (BTC-e redeemable code) USD (Cash deposit at Post of Russia) USD (Cash deposit at banks including Privatbank, Savings Bank of Russia (Sberbank), RU/UA Terminals, & more) USD ([[Liberty Reserve]]) USD (Interkassa) USD (WebMoney - WMZ) USD (Yandex) USD (LiqPay) USD (Perfect Money) USD (QIWI) USD (OKPay) USD (RBK Money) USD (Ditial currencies including НСМЭП (NSMEP), Единый Кошелек (Unified Purse), TeleMoney, & more) USD (BTC-e Redeemable Code, available via BitInstant and AurumXChange) USD (International bank wire) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) RUB (QIWI) RUB (LiqPay) RUB (WebMoney-WMR) RUB (BTC-e Redeemable code) RUB (Bank transfer) || BTC BTC (BTC-e redeemble code) USD (Liberty Reserve) USD (Webmoney - WMZ) USD (Perfect Money) USD (LiqPay) USD (QIWI) USD (PayPal) USD (OKPay) USD (Payza/AlertPay) USD (Privat, Privat UAH) USD (Cash deposit into Savings Bank/Sberbank, Telebank, Alfa Bank) USD (BTC-e Redeemable Code) USD (International Wire Transfer) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) RUB (Cash delivery, possible in Moscow) RUB (QIWI) RUB (LiqPay) RUB (WebMoney WMR) RUB (Яндекс.Деньги Yandex) RUB (RBK Money) Cash deposit (into account at Сбербанка России!/Savings Bank/Sberbank, Телебанк (Telebank), and АльфаБанк (Alfa Bank) RUB (Transfer to credit card VISA & MasterCard) RUB (BTC-e Redeemable code) RUB (Bank transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} || Language: English, Russian.
|-
| [[VirtEx]] || BTC CAD (cash deposit at Royal Bank, Bank of Montreal or ScotiaBank) CAD (Online bill payment) CAD (Wire transfer) || BTC CAD (direct deposit) CAD (Canada Xpress Post Bank Draft send by mail) CAD Payza (formerly AlertPay) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[Camp BX]] (CBX) || BTC USD ([[Dwolla]]) USD (P2P bank transfer at Chase, B of A, Wells Fargo and ING. Credited after three business days). USD (Personal Check) USD (USPS Postal money order, Canada Post money order) || BTC USD ([[Dwolla]]) USD (ACH Direct Deposit) USD (USPS Postal Money Order) USD (Domestic bank wire) USD (International bank wire) || {{Table Value Yes}} || <ul> <li> Security certification from McAfee</li><li> Advanced trading options with AON/FOK/Market</li> <li>STOPLOSS and Short-Selling in Pipeline</li><li> Trading API available</li><li> Wallet API available </li><li> CBX Instant Bitcoin Transfers Feature </li><li> Stoploss / Custom Order Expiry Date/Time </li><li> SMS (Text Message) Notifications </li> <li> Two-Factor Authentication </li> <li> Based in USA - Atlanta </li> </ul>
|-
| [[Bitfloor]] || BTC USD (bank wire transfer) USD (Cash deposit at Bank of America) USD (CapitalOne 360 P2P) || BTC USD (ACH, direct deposit) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[Bitstamp]] || BTC BTC (Redeemable code) EUR (SEPA transfer) USD (Intl wire) USD (Redeemable code) CHF || BTC BTC (Redeemable code) EUR (SEPA transfer) USD (Intl wire) USD (Redeemable code) CHF || {{Table Value Yes}} || EUR and CHF deposits converted to/from USD for trading
|-
| [[Bitcoin-Central]] || BTC GBP (Bank transfer) EUR (SEPA) Liberty Reserve USD Liberty Reserve EUR International wire (any currency) || BTC GBP (Bank transfer) EUR (SEPA) Liberty Reserve USD Liberty Reserve EUR || {{Table Value Yes}} || [https://github.com/davout/bitcoin-central Open-source], community reviewed platform Available in French and English languages
|-
| [[FYB-SG]] || BTC SGD(Internet Bank Transfer) SGD (Annonymous Cash Deposit at any UOB Cash Deposit Machine in Singapore). || BTC SGD(Internet Bank Transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} || <ul><li> Based in Singapore </li> </ul>
|-
| [[Mercado Bitcoin]] || BTC BRL (Bank transfer) BRL (Bank transfer - MoIP) Liberty Reserve USD || BTC BRL (Bank transfer - MoIP) || {{Table Value Yes}} || Language: Portugese
|-
| [[Rock Currency Exchange]] || BTC SLL (Second Life) USD ([[Dwolla]]) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) || BTC SLL (Second Life) USD ([[Dwolla]]) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[bitNZ]] || BTC NZD (Cash deposit at Westpac) || BTC NZD (Domestic bank transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[Bitcoin-24]] || BTC USD ([[MtGox]] redeemable code) USD (VouchX redeemable code) USD (Credit card through LiqPay) USD (International bank wire) EUR ([[MtGox]] redeemable code) EUR (VouchX redeemable code) EUR (SEPA wire) EUR (Sofort banking/Sofortuberweisung) EUR (GIROPay) GBP (International bank wire, converted to EUR) PLN (International bank wire, converted to EUR) || BTC USD (Bank wire transfer) USD ([[Skrill]]/Moneybookers) USD (VouchX redeemable code) EUR (SEPA wire) EUR (VouchX redeemable code) EUR (Cash, via DHL) || {{Table Value Yes}} || <ul><li>Biggest Exchange in Europe</li><li>Instant registration and trading</li><li>Instant credit card deposits</li><li>Instant bank transfers from the EU</li><li>No trading fees for bitcoins</li><li>No restrictions and limits on withdrawals and deposits</li><li>Support chat</li><li>SMS notifications</li></ul>
|-
| [[Kapiton.se]] || BTC SEK (Bankgiro Bank Transfer) || BTC SEK (Bankgiro Bank Transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[Vircurex]] || BTC EUR (VouchX/AurumXchange redeemable code) USD (VouchX/AurumXchange redeemable code)|| BTC EUR (VouchX/AurumXchange redeemable code) USD (VouchX/AurumXchange redeemable code)|| {{Table Value Yes}} || Trading in many other P2P/Crypto currencies possible
|-
| [[BitMe]] || BTC USD (Cash deposits at Chase) USD (Wire Transfer - US) USD (Wire Transfer - International) USD (VouchX/AurumXchange redeemable code) || BTC USD (VouchX/AurumXChanage redemable code) USD (ACH / Direct Deposit) USD (Wire Transfer - US) || {{ Table Value Yes }} || <ul><li>US-based</li><li>Liquidity rebates</li><li>[https://github.com/bitme BitMe's GitHub]</li><li>[http://bitme.github.com/rest/ REST API]</li></ul>
|-
| [[Real Bitcoin]] || BTC INR (Transfer directly to your account) USD|| BTC INR USD || {{Table Value Yes}} || Trading, printing, exchange, interest on investment, transfer to local bank
|}

==Fixed Rate Exchanges & Others==

The following exchanges are either exchanges using a fixed rate based on other markets or are exchanges that enable you to redeem smaller amounts of bitcoins at reasonable rates:

* [[AurumXchange Company]] Exchange Bitcoins '''instantly''' to Liberty Reserve, Perfect Money, Pecunix, C-Gold, VouchX, CosmicPay and more. Sell your Bitcoins and receive a USD Wire, or SEPA EUR transfer.
* [[AutoMtGox]] Convert your bitcoins to US Dollars automatically.
* [[Bahtcoin]] Trade BTC for Thai Baht, cash, LR, Webmoney, or Thai mobile and gaming prepaid cards.
* [[BTC China]] - Market for exchanging bitcoins to and from CNY, withdraw CNY (Tencent, Alipay) and USD (Liberty Reserve).
* [[BitBargain]] - Market in the UK for buying bitcoins with GBP instantly from trusted OTC sellers through escrow.
* [[Bitcoil]] Exchange BTC for ILS with bank transfers in Israel
* [[Bitcoin Argentina]] Trades BTC for ARS. Cash and bank transfer. No exchange fees.
* [[Bitcoin Brasil]] Cash exchange that redeems bitcoins for BRL, USD.
* [[Bitcoin Nordic]] Sell bitcoins with withdrawal to PayPal or bank transfer.
* [http://BitcoinIsrael.co.il BitcoinIsrael.co.il] Get cash (ILS) for your Bitcoins within hours from any where in Israel.
* [[Bitcoiny.cz]] Trade your BTCs for CZK. No-escrow, direct person-to-person trading.
* [[bitcoin-otc]] IRC trading marketplace will usually have people willing to deal for small and larger amounts using various payment methods, including [[PayPal]], [[Dwolla]], [[Linden Dollars]], etc.
* [[Bitcoin.com.es]] Trade your BTCs for EUR (Bank transfer).
* [[bitcoin.de]] Trade your BTCs for EUR (bank wire, SEPA bank transfer, Liberty Reserve, Money Bookers), person to person, eWallet
* [http://bitcoin.in.th/ Bitcoin in Thailand] Buy and Sell BTC in Thailand for cash via local bank deposits and transfers.
* [[bitcoin.local]] arranges for exchanging currencies in person with someone nearby
* [[Bitcoins In Berlin]] Trade your BTC for cash-in-the-mail (EUR), in-person trande, Western Union, Moneygram, bank transfer or SEPA.
* [[Bitcopia.com]] Sell bitcoins for (USD): Cash in Mail, check, money order, cash deposit, bank transfer, or dwolla. Instant quotes based on live Mt. Gox prices.
* [[BitMarket.co]] Trade your BTCs for Colombian Peso (COP) as OTC with BTC Escrow.
* [[BitPiggy]] Trade your BTCs for AUD (Bank transfer).
* [http://BTCInstant.com BTCinstant.com] Trade bitcoins for Virtual Credit Card (VCC, and specifically Virtual Mastercard brand) sent through e-mail.
* [[BlockChain.info]] Convert bitcoins to [[MoneyPak]] straight from your Blockchain wallet (serviced from [[BTCPak]]).
* [[btcbuy|BTC Buy]] Simple interface to trade your BTCs for Amazon, Barnes & Noble, NewEgg, ThinkGeek and Sears gift cards
* [http://www.BTCJoe.com BTCJoe.com] Trade bitcoins for Amazon gift codes and iTunes (USD).
* [[BTCPak]] EXCHANGE YOUR BITCOINS FOR MONEYPAK: SECURE, ANONYMOUS AND EASY!
* [[btcx.se]] / Btcx Sweden || 0% above 80 btc || SEK || Bank transfers to most Swedish banks within 4-12 hours.
* [[Canadian Bitcoins]] Buy/Sell Bitcoins in CAD and receive Cash, Cheque, Bank Transfer (TD Person Pay) or Interac.
* [[Cartão BitCoin]] Convert your bitcoins to reload your debit card (offered to Brazilians, accepted at 10,000 locations in Brazil)
* [[Coin2Pal]] Sell your Bitcoins and receive PayPal funds immediately.
* [[Coinabul]] Trade your BTCs for Gold/Silver
* [[Coinbase]] Sell bitcoins with proceeds delivered as a bank transfer (U.S., as ACH/direct deposit). Instant verification available for new accounts.
* [[ECurrencyZone]] Cash out bitcoins to INR, BDT, MYR, SGD via bank transfer or cash deposited to your bank account. Also to Western Union, Moneygram, Citibank global funds transfer, Paypal, Skrill/Moneybookers, Payza/AlertPay, OKPay. Convert to digital currencies Liberty Reserve, C-Gold, Perfect Money, WebMoney and EGOPay.
* [[FastCash4Bitcoins]] Sell your BTC and receive cash today. Over 100,000 BTC bought. Payments issued using your choice of PayPal, Dwolla, ACH (Direct Deposit), Bank Wire, Company Check, Cashier's Check or Silver Bullion even.
* [http://www.happycoins.nl HappyCoins] Buy and sell Bitcoins in Euro using the Dutch iDEAL or European SEPA payment system. Fast and simple transactions with transparent fee and prices based on near real-time MtGox exchange price.
* [[Mang Sweeney]] Use bitcoins to send remittance payments to the Philippines, in-person cash out in metro Manilla or from various remittance centers. Languages: English, Filipino.
* [[Lilion Transfer]] Exchanges bitcoins for Liberty Reserve, [[Pecunix]], [[AlertPay]], [[Skrill]]/Moneybookers, [[PayPal]], and more.
* [[Nanaimo Gold]] Redeem bitcoins for Liberty Reserve (automated) or for money transfer, money order or direct deposit within Canada.
* [[Spend Bitcoins]] Sell bitcoins for AUD (Australia). Redeem for bank transfer, AustPost reloadable VISA, bill payment and other various methods.
* [[Real Bitcoin]] Buy, Sell, trade, print, vanity address, interest on investment, transfer directly to your bank.
* [[WM-Center]] Buy/Sell BTCs with withdrawal to International bank wire (USD, GBP, EUR/IBAN, RUB, AUD), Western Union, Moneygram, Liberty Reserve USD/EUR, Perfect Money USD/EUR, Pecunix, Paxum, c-gold, Hoopay, Anelik, Xoom, cash, etc. 24/7/365 support in english, spanish and russian.
* [http://localbitcoins.com LocalBitcoins.com] ([[LocalBitcoins|Info]]) Location-based bitcoin to cash exchange.
* [[OKPAY]] || Convert bitcoins from USD, EUR, GBP, RUB, CHF etc via Bank Wire Transfer, USD, EUR via additional direct methods, USD, EUR via Migom, USD, EUR via Money Polo, USD, EUR via Intel Express, USD, EUR via Liqpay, USD, EUR, UAH via Wallet1, RUB via (Yandex Money), and USD via OKPAY Debit Card. Completely non-reversible payments. Support of 19 world currencies, 15 languages.

==Goods and Services==

One way of selling bitcoins is to use them as the payment method when making purchases.

See the [[Trade]] page for a fairly comprehensive list of goods and service that bitcoins will purchase.

==See Also==

* [[:Category:Digital currencies|Digital currencies]]
* [[Buying bitcoins]]
* [[Secure Trading]]
* [[:Category:Local|Local]] exchanges

[[Category:Exchanges]]
[[Category:Introduction]]

Buying bitcoins

2013-03-19T01:44:06Z

Bernard75: Update of Bitcoin-24 features

There are various methods available for buying bitcoins. See [[Buying Bitcoins (the noob version)|here for a Newb-friendly version]] of this page.

Warning: Please be careful with your money. When sending money to an exchange or seller you are trusting that the operator will not abscond with your funds and that the operator maintains secure systems that protect against theft -- internal or external. It is recommended that you obtain the real-world identity of the operator and ensure that sufficient recourse is available. Exchanging or storing significant amounts of funds with exchanges is not recommended.

==Major Exchanges==

The least expensive methods for buying bitcoins involve transferring funds using a bank wire, ACH, bank transfer (ACH, EUR / SEPA).

Exchanges are listed in alphabetical order.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
| Exchange || Adding Funds || Withdrawing Funds || [[eWallet]] || Notes
|-
| [[File:BIPS.gif|20px|link=https://bips.me]] [https://bips.me BIPS] ([[BIPS|info]]) || BTC CAD (Cash deposits in Canada) Any Currency (Wire Transfer - Any Country) USD (Liberty Reserve) || Danish Domestic Transfer Any Currency (ACH / Direct Deposit) Any Currency (Wire Transfer - Any Country) USD (Mt.Gox) || {{ Table Value Yes }} || <ul><li>DK-based</li><li>[https://github.com/BitcoinInternetPaymentSystem BIPS GitHub]</li><li>[https://bips.me/connect/BitcoinInternetPaymentSystemAPI.pdf REST API]</li></ul>
|-
| [[Bitcoin-24]] || BTC USD ([[MtGox]] redeemable code) USD (VouchX redeemable code) USD (Credit card through LiqPay) USD (International bank wire) EUR ([[MtGox]] redeemable code) EUR (VouchX redeemable code) EUR (SEPA wire) EUR (Sofort banking/Sofortuberweisung) EUR (GIROPay) GBP (International bank wire, converted to EUR) PLN (International bank wire, converted to EUR) || BTC USD (Bank wire transfer) USD ([[Skrill]]/Moneybookers) USD (VouchX redeemable code) EUR (SEPA wire) EUR (VouchX redeemable code) EUR (Cash, via DHL) || {{Table Value Yes}} || <ul><li>Second biggest Euro exchange</li><li>Instant registration and trading</li><li>Instant credit card deposits</li><li>Instant bank transfers from the EU</li><li>No trading fees for bitcoins</li><li>No restrictions and limits on withdrawals and deposits</li><li>Support chat</li><li>SMS notifications</li></ul>
|-
| [[Bitcoin-Central]] || BTC GBP (Bank transfer) EUR (SEPA) Liberty Reserve USD Liberty Reserve EUR International wire (any currency) || BTC GBP (Bank transfer) EUR (SEPA) Liberty Reserve USD Liberty Reserve EUR || {{Table Value Yes}} || [https://github.com/davout/bitcoin-central Open-source], community reviewed platform Available in French and English languages
|-
| [[Bitfloor]] || BTC USD (bank wire transfer) USD (Cash deposit at Bank of America) USD (CapitalOne 360 P2P) || BTC USD (ACH, direct deposit) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[BitMe]] || BTC USD (Cash deposits at Chase) USD (Wire Transfer - US Only) USD (AurumXchange VouchX) || BTC USD (AurumXchange VouchX) USD (ACH / Direct Deposit) USD (Wire Transfer - US Only) || {{ Table Value Yes }} || <ul><li>US-based</li><li>Liquidity provider discounts</li><li>[https://github.com/bitme BitMe's GitHub]</li><li>[http://bitme.github.com/rest/ REST API]</li></ul>
|-
| [[bitNZ]] || BTC NZD (Cash depost as Westbank) || BTC NZD (Domestic bank transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[Bitstamp]] || BTC BTC (Redeemable code) EUR (SEPA transfer) USD (Intl wire) USD (Redeemable code) CHF || BTC BTC (Redeemable code) EUR (SEPA transfer) USD (Intl wire) USD (Redeemable code) CHF || {{Table Value Yes}} || EUR and CHF deposits converted to/from USD for trading
|-
| [[BTC-E]] || BTC BTC (BTC-e redeemable code) USD (Cash deposit at Post of Russia) USD (Cash deposit at banks including Privatbank, Savings Bank of Russia (Sberbank), RU/UA Terminals, & more) USD ([[Liberty Reserve]]) USD (Interkassa) USD (WebMoney - WMZ) USD (Yandex) USD (LiqPay) USD (Perfect Money) USD (QIWI) USD (OKPay) USD (RBK Money) USD (Ditial currencies including НСМЭП (NSMEP), Единый Кошелек (Unified Purse), TeleMoney, & more) USD (BTC-e Redeemable Code, available via BitInstant and AurumXChange) USD (International bank wire) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) RUB (QIWI) RUB (LiqPay) RUB (WebMoney-WMR) RUB (BTC-e Redeemable code) RUB (Bank transfer) || BTC BTC (BTC-e redeemble code) USD (Liberty Reserve) USD (Webmoney - WMZ) USD (Perfect Money) USD (LiqPay) USD (QIWI) USD (PayPal) USD (OKPay) USD (Payza/AlertPay) USD (Privat, Privat UAH) USD (Cash deposit into Savings Bank/Sberbank, Telebank, Alfa Bank) USD (BTC-e Redeemable Code) USD (International Wire Transfer) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) RUB (Cash delivery, possible in Moscow) RUB (QIWI) RUB (LiqPay) RUB (WebMoney WMR) RUB (Яндекс.Деньги Yandex) RUB (RBK Money) Cash deposit (into account at Сбербанка России!/Savings Bank/Sberbank, Телебанк (Telebank), and АльфаБанк (Alfa Bank) RUB (Transfer to credit card VISA & MasterCard) RUB (BTC-e Redeemable code) RUB (Bank transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} || Language: English, Russian. Interkassa can be funded from Webmoney and many other methods. BitInstant Can be funding option includes QIWI, Cyberplat.
|-
| [[Camp BX]] (CBX) || BTC USD ([[Dwolla]]) USD (P2P bank transfer at Chase, B of A, Wells Fargo and ING. Credited after three business days). USD (Personal Check) USD (USPS Postal money order, Canada Post money order) || BTC USD ([[Dwolla]]) USD (ACH Direct Deposit) USD (USPS Postal Money Order) USD (Domestic bank wire) USD (International bank wire) || {{Table Value Yes}} || <ul> <li> Security certification from McAfee</li><li> Advanced trading options with AON/FOK/Market</li> <li>STOPLOSS and Short-Selling in Pipeline</li><li> Trading API available</li><li> Wallet API available </li><li> CBX Instant Bitcoin Transfers Feature </li><li> Stoploss / Custom Order Expiry Date/Time </li><li> SMS (Text Message) Notifications </li> <li> Two-Factor Authentication </li> <li> Based in USA - Atlanta </li> </ul>
|-
| [[FYB-SG]] || BTC SGD(Internet Bank Transfer) SGD (Annonymous Cash Deposit at any UOB Cash Deposit Machine in Singapore). || BTC SGD(Internet Bank Transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} || <ul><li> Based in Singapore </li> </ul>
|-
| [[Intersango]] || BTC EUR (SEPA bank wire) PLN (Bank Wire) || BTC EUR (SEPA bank wire) PLN (Bank Wire) || {{Table Value Yes}} || Operated by the [https://bitcoinconsultancy.com/ BitcoinConsultancy] [https://intersango.com Intersango] is a completely custom trading platform built from the ground up with security, scalability and extensibility in mind. [https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=43745.0 More Information] Boasts an [https://bitcoinconsultancy.com/wiki/index.php/Intersango/API ever expanding API]. Started out as [[Britcoin]].
|-
| [[Kapiton.se]] || BTC SEK (Bankgiro Bank Transfer) || BTC SEK (Bankgiro Bank Transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[Mercado Bitcoin]] || BTC BRL (Bank transfer) BRL (Bank transfer - MoIP) Liberty Reserve USD || BTC BRL (Bank transfer - MoIP) || {{Table Value Yes}} || Language: Portugese
|-
| [[MtGox]] || BTC BTC (Redeemable code) USD ([[Dwolla]]) USD (International bank wire) USD (Wire to [[AurumXChange Company|AurumXChange]]) USD ([[OKPay]]) AUD (Bank wire) GBP (Bank wire) GBP (Cash deposit, Barclays) USD (Redeemable code) Liberty Reserve USD (via AurumXChange) || BTC BTC (Redeemable code) USD ([[Dwolla]]) USD (Wire via [[AurumXChange Company|AurumXChange]]) AUD (Bank wire) USD (Redeemable code) Liberty Reserve USD (via AurumXChange) || {{Table Value Yes}} || Oldest running exchange. Higest daily volume. Respecting AML laws, Restrictions and limits on withdrawals.
|-
| [[Rock Currency Exchange]] || BTC EUR (SEPA transfer) SLL (Second Life) USD (Dwolla) || BTC EUR (SEPA transfer) SLL (Second Life) USD (Dwolla) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[VirtEx]] || BTC CAD (cash deposit at Royal Bank, Bank of Montreal or ScotiaBank) CAD (Online bill payment) CAD (Wire transfer) || BTC CAD (direct deposit) CAD (Canada Xpress Post Bank Draft send by mail) CAD Payza (formerly AlertPay) || {{Table Value Yes}} ||
|-
| [[VirWoX]] || BTC SLL (Second Life) ACD (Avination) OMC (OpenSim) USD,EUR,GBP,CHF ([[PayPal]]) USD,EUR,GBP (Credit & Debit cards via [[Skrill]]/Moneybookers) USD,EUR,GBP ([[NETELLER]]) EUR (DIRECTebanking / Sofortuberweisung) USD,EUR,GBP,CHF ([[paysafecard]]) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) USD ([[UKash]] vouchers) || BTC SLL (Second Life) ACD (Avination) OMC (OpenSim) USD,EUR,GBP,CHF ([[PayPal]]) USD,EUR,GBP ([[Skrill]]/Moneybookers) USD,EUR,GBP ([[NETELLER]]) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) || {{Table Value Yes}} || Trading through Second Life Linden Dollars. Variable limits on PayPal and Credit Card deposits.
|}

==Fixed Rate Exchanges & Others==
bi
For smaller amounts, the options are limited due to bank transfer fees, conversion fees and transaction size restrictions. Options include:

{| class="wikitable"
|-
| Service || Type || Payment Method || Notes
|-
| [https://www.aurumxchange.com AurumXchange] ([[AurumXchange|info]]) || Market || USD,EUR,GBP || Exchange Bitcoins '''instantly''' to and from Liberty Reserve, Perfect Money, Pecunix, C-Gold, VouchX, CosmicPay and more. Sell and buy your Bitcoins through USD or GBP Wire, or SEPA EUR transfer.
|-
| [https://bitbargain.co.uk BitBargain] ([[BitBargain|info]]) || Market || GBP || Quick transactions via Bank Transfer (fast payments support only), Pingit and Ukash. Deals happen between buyer and seller.
|-
| [https://www.bitcopia.com Bitcopia] ([[Bitcopia.com|info]]) || Fixed Rate || USD (Cash deposit) || Buy bitcoins via cash deposit at Wells Fargo, or send money via online banking with Wells Fargo. Instant quotes based on live Mt Gox prices.
|-
| [http://btc.pt BTC.pt] || Market Rate || EUR (Multibanco) || Anonymous transactions. Pay the amount on any Portuguese ATM(MB) or homebanking service, we'll deduce our fee and buy the coins for you at market rate and send them very fast to your wallet. Only available in Portugal.
|-
| [http://www.coinmarket.co.nz Coin Market] || Fixed Rate || NZD (NZ Bank deposit/Cash) || Cash deposit or bank transfer to domestic New Zealand bank. Cash payment to brokerage. Guest checkout available.
|-
| [[Bit Innovate]] || Fixed Rate || AUD, NZD (Cash deposit) || Australian Dollar cash deposit at any Commonwealth or Westpac Bank. New Zealand Dollar cash deposits at any ASB.
|-
| [https://blockchain.info/wallet/deposit-methods Blockchain] ([[BlockChain.info|info]]) || Fixed Rate || USD, GBP, EUR, BRL, AUD, CAD, JPY, EUR, CHF, PLN, CZK, RON, RUB, SEK, NOK, DKK || Purchased through [[BitInstant]] (U.S., Brazil, and Russia), Barclay's Pingit or Bank Transfer (GBP), Instant Bank Transfer (EUR) or SMS or premium phone call from a mobile.
|-
| [[BitInstant]] || Market Rate || USD (Cash deposit at banks, 7-11, Walmart, CVS, Moneygram locations) USD (Dwolla) BRL (Cash deposit at Banco Rendimento or through Boleto) RUB (Cash deposit through Qiwi or Cyberplat) || Deposit cash at 700,000 locations around the world and have your Bitcoins within 30 minutes. Absolute fastest and easiest way to buy Bitcoins.
|-
| [[Coinapult]] || Fixed rate || Use [[BitInstant]] to use cash to purchase bitcoins sent to e-mail or SMS. Choose "Bitcoin to e-mail" service and enter either e-mail or SMS. ||
|-
| [[Coinbase]] || Fixed rate || Buy bitcoins using a bank transfer (U.S.). || Instant verification available for new accounts.
|-
| [http://BitcoinIsrael.co.il BitcoinIsrael.co.il] || Fixed Rate || ILS (NIS - New Israeli Shekel)
* via bank transfer
* via Bank HaDoar /Post Office Bank (instant transfer)
* via In Person
|| Buy and sell your Bitcoins within minutes in person. Get "same day" service using Bank HaDoar /Post Office Bank. Get "next day" service using Bank Transfer.
|-
| [[Bitcoin Nordic]] || Fixed Rate
|
*EUR/DKK (SEPA and wire transfer)
*USD, EUR, GBP, DKK, SEK, NOK (Cash or check in the mail)
*AED, DZD, EGP, IQD, ILS, JOD, KWD, LGP, LYD, MRO, MYR, NGN, OMR, PKR, QAR, SAR, TRL, TZS, TND, YER ([[CashU]] card)
*MXN, EYU, BOB, BRL, COP, SYP, MAD, GHC, ZAR, CNY, CAD, and more ([[UKash]] voucher)
| For UKash, redeemed through CashU account.
|-
| [[Omnicoins]] || Fixed Rate || AUD (Cash deposit) || Deposit cash at any Commonwealth, NAB, or Westpac branch.
|-
| [[Spend Bitcoins]] || Fixed Rate || AUD (Cash deposit) || AUD cash deposit at NAB, Commonwealth Bank, Westpac and ANZ.
|-
| [https://bitcoinmylife.com/jml/buy-bitcoins BitcoinMyLife] ([[BitcoinMyLife|info]]) || Fixed Rate || EUR (SEPA bank transfer) || Simple and Safe. Pay first transaction fee with Twitter or Facebook post.
|-
| [[bitcoin.de]] || Market || EUR (bank wire) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) EUR (Liberty Reserve) EUR ([[Skrill]]/Moneybookers) || Varies (person to person) 0.01 free Bitcoins for every new user eWallet Affiliate program Language: German, Englisch News
|-
| [[Bitcoiny.cz]] || Market || CZK || Varies (person to person)
|-
| [[BTCX.se]] || Fixed Rate || SEK || Transfer to and banks in Sweden.
|-
| [[BTC China]] || Fixed Rate || USD (Liberty Reserve) || Converted to CNY for trading.
|-
| [[BitMarket.co]] || Market || COP (Colombian Peso) || Varies (person to person)
|-
| [[bitcoin-otc|#bitcoin-otc]] || [http://bitcoin-otc.com/vieworderbook.php Order Book] || Varies (person to person) || IRC trading marketplace will usually have people willing to deal for small and larger amounts using various payment methods, including [[PayPal]], [[Dwolla]], [[Linden Dollars]], etc.
|-
| [[Canadian Bitcoins]] || Fixed Rate || CAD (Cash - XpressPost or Dropoff) USD (Cash - Courier: UPS, FedEx, etc.) || For dropoff, office in Ottawa.
|-
| [https://dgtmkt.com Dgtmkt] ([[Dgtmkt|info]]) || Fixed Rate || Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) Online bank transfers (Maybank2U, CIMB, MEPS, etc) E-vouchers (Web Cash, Mobile Money) || Bitcoin merchant for Malaysians,. dealing in Malaysian Ringgit. Fully automated immediate transfers. https://dgtmkt.com
|-
| [[Lilion Transfer]] || Fixed Rate || Bank Transfer: USD, AUD, CAD, JPY, EUR, CHF, GBP, PLN, CZK, RON, BGN, HRK, RUB, SEK, NOK, DKK, LTL, LVL Liberty Reserve Perfect Money Monetto OK Pay Cosmic Pay Pecunix C-Gold E-Pay Payments PayPal|| 122 accounts worldwide. Support in 30 languages
|-
| [[Nanaimo Gold]] || Fixed Rate || USD (Liberty Reserve) Western Union money transfer Moneygram money transfer Cash in the mail || LR <--> Bitcoin exchange is automated For cash in the mail send USD, EUR, CAD, or GBP. Canada mailing address.
|-
| [[Bitcoin Argentina]] || Fixed Rate || Cash: ARS, BRL, USD Bank transfer: ARS || No exchange fees!
|-
| [[Bitcoin.com.es]] || Fixed Rate || EUR (bank deposit) || Bank transfer or cash deposits at OpenBank in Spain.
|-
| [[Bahtcoin]] || Fixed Rate || Cash, Webmoney Liberty Reserve USD || Will cash out to Thai mobile and gaming prepaid cards as well.
|-
| [http://bitcoin.in.th Bitcoin Thailand] || Fixed Rate || THB: Cash/Bank Deposit || Same day service.
|-
| [[Bitcoin Brasil]] || Fixed Rate || BRL (Brazilian Real) USD || Cash exchange
|-
| [[BitPiggy]] || Fixed Rate || AUD (Australian Dollar)|| Payment via bank transfer.
|-
| [[bitcoin.local]] || Directory || Varies (person to person) ||
|-
| [[bcchanger.com]] || Directory || Enables person to person purchases and sales via PayPal, [[Skrill]]/Moneybookers and other e-currency platforms ||
|-
| [[Bitcoil]] || Fixed Rate || ILS (bank transfer) ||
|-
|[[btcnow]] || Market || USD (OKPay, Dwolla) || bitcoins transferred instantly
|-
| [http://localbitcoins.com LocalBitcoins.com] || Directory || Varies (person to person) Physical cash locally || Find your local bitcoin dealer! With dynamic pricing with equations.
|-
| [http://www.happycoins.nl HappyCoins] || Fixed Rate || EUR (iDEAL and SEPA bank transfer) || Buy and sell Bitcoins. Dutch bank account holders receive Bitcoins within minutes and bank payments same day. Other European IBAN bank account transactions take one or two working days. Prices based on near real-time MtGox exchange price.
|-
| [[WM-Center]] || Fixed rate || BTC USD (International bank wire, Western Unon, Moneygram, Xoom etc, cash) EUR (IBAN bank wire) RUB (bank wire, WU, Anelik and etc, cash) AUD (Bank wire) Liberty Reserve USD/EUR, Perfect Money USD/EUR, Pecunix, Paxum, c-gold, Hoopay, GDP || 24/7/365 support in English, Spanish and Russian.
|-
| [[ECurrencyZone]] || Fixed Rate || BTC INR (Cash deposit of Indian rupee) BDT (Cash deposit of Bangladeshi taka) NPR (Cash deposit of Nepalese rupee) MYR (Cash deposit of Malaysian ringitt) SGD (Cash deposit of Singaporean dollar) SGD (Net/Bank transfer) USD (Western Union, Moneygram, Citibank global funds transfer, OKPay) USD (Liberty Reserve, Mt. Gox redeemable code) || Bank transfer considered at all locations with prior approval.
|-
| [[BitCoinVend]] || Market || BTC USD (PayPal) || bitcoinvend@gmail.com, market variable with commission, quote based, verified paypal account with anti scammer verification
|-
| [[Bitcoins In Berlin]] || Fixed Rate || EUR (Cash in-the mail) EUR (Cash in-person trade) EUR (SEPA bank transfer) EUR (Mt. Gox [[redeemable code]]) EUR (Western Union) || Cash in-the-mail is to a Berlin P.O. box. In-person trade is in Berlin.
|-
| [https://www.lojabitcoin.pt Loja Bitcoin] || Fixed Rate|| EUR (ATM/Multibanco, bank transfer, money order, cash) || Several payment methods like the Portuguese "Multibanco" (ATM), "Vale postal CTT" (money order by mail), bank transfer and cash (in some locations) - Portugal only at the moment
|-
|-
| [[Mang Sweeney]] || Fixed Rate || PHP (Cash) PHP (Cash deposit at bank) || Languages: English, Pinoy. PHP [https://localbitcoins.com/accounts/profile/mangsweeney cash trade method] in metro Manilla, Philappines.
|-
| [[mercaBit.eu]] || Fixed Rate|| EUR (Ukash) EUR (Hal-Cash) EUR (Neteller) || Buy bitcoins with ukash and more
|-
| [http://buyBTC.cz buyBTC.cz] ([[buyBTC.cz|info]]) || Fixed Rate|| CZK (Domestic bank transfer) EUR (Bank transfer) || Buy bitcoins from the Czech Republic.
|-
| [http://InstaWire.com InstaWire.com] ([[InstaWire|info]]) || Fixed Rate|| EUR (SEPA bank transfer) || No sign-up, just enter the amount and a Bitcoin address.
|-
| [http://ZIGGAP.com ZIGGAP] ([[ZIGGAP|info]]) || Fixed Rate|| USD (Cash deposit at Chase, PNC bank) AUD (Cash deposit at National Australia Bank/NAB AUD (Online bill payment/POLI payments) USD (Moneygram, Western Union) || Buy from any Moneygram and Western Union location worldwide.
|-
| [http://bitonic.nl Bitonic.nl] || Fixed Rate|| EUR (iDeal) || Buy bitcoins instantly from the Netherlands.
|-
| [http://swissbitcoins.ch swissbitcoins.ch] ([[Swissbitcoins|info]]) || Fixed Rate|| CHF (Swiss Bank Transfer) || Buy Bitcoins in Switzerland. No registration required. Enter Bitcoin address, wire money and get your bitcoins within 24 hours.
|-
| [http://www.dragons.tl Dragon's Tale] ([[Dragon's Tale|info]]) || Other || Credit card (except in the U.S.) || Purchase bitcoins through this MMO casino with credit card, withdraw bitcoins (though a fee applies if withdrawn and no casino play.)
|-
| [https://buybitcoinbycreditcard.com buybitcoinbycreditcard.com] || Fixed Rate || JPY (Credit Card) || Buy bitcoins instantly with your credit card. No registration required. This site accept from the world.
|-
| [[OKPAY]] || Fixed Rate || BTC USD, EUR, GBP, RUB, CHF etc (Bank Wire Transfer) EUR (SofortBanking) USD, EUR (Liqpay) USD (CashU) USD, EUR, GBP, RUB, CHF etc (UWCFS) USD, RUB, UAH (Wallet1) RUB (Yandex Money) RUB (EasyPay) USD, EUR (CONTACT) USD, EUR (Migom) USD, EUR, CZK (Money Polo) USD, EUR (Intel Express) USD, EUR (Western Union via Exchange Partners) USD, EUR (Moneygram via Exchange Partners) USD, EUR, (Liberty Reserve via Exchange Partners) || Support of 19 world currencies, 15 languages.
|-
|}

==Direct / Bulk Buying==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
| Service || Type || Payment Method || Notes
|-
| [http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=87094.0 Bitcoins Direct] || Direct purchases, $1,000 and higher. || USD (Cash deposit at B of A, Wells Fargo or PNC Bank, max $3,000) USD (Bank wire, domestic or international), max $6,000 unless prior authorization USD (Liberty Reserve) || BTC || Inventory varies based on market conditions.
|-
| [http://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=89757.msg996082#msg996082 BitPay] ([[BitPay|info]]) || Direct purchases, $10,000 USD and higher || USD (Bank wire, domestic or international) || BTC || Contact for other payment methods.
|}

==Other Financial Services==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
| Service || Type || Payment || Settled || Notes
|-
| [[MPEx]] || Buy / Sell / Exercise CALLs / PUTs, American style. 52 strikes offered (by .5), current month + 2. No shorting available yet.|| BTC || BTC || Transactions encoded via amt. Must use non-rounding client (0.3.24 or later)
|-
| [https://vircurex.com Vircurex] || Buy / Sell Options Loan / Borrow || BTC, NMC, LTC, DVC, GG, I0C, IXC, SC || BTC, NMC, LTC, DVC, GG, I0C, IXC, SC ||
|}

==Physical Bitcoins==

Physical Bitcoins are bearer tokens that have an embedded redeemable digital bitcoin value if torn open. While they are somewhat expensive if bought purely for the digital bitcoins, they are relatively easy to get, because they can be purchased with PayPal or credit card - payment methods not typically not accepted for pure digital bitcoin purchases.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
| Service || Type || Payment || Notes
|-
| [http://www.memorydealers.com Memory Dealers] || Casascius Physical Bitcoins || USD (PayPal/Credit Card) ||
|-
| [https://www.casascius.com Casascius.com] || Casascius Physical Bitcoins || BTC ||
|-
| [https://www.giftcoin.net/card Bitcoin Gift Card] || Bitcioin Gift Card Physical Bitcoin Issued By GiftCoin || BTC ||
|-
| [http://www.bitbills.com Bitbills] || Bitbills cards || BTC || Not taking orders as of Nov 2011.
|}

==Exchange Directories==
* [http://howtobuybitcoins.com/ HowToBuyBitcoins.com]
* [http://howtobuybitcoins.info/ HowToBuyBitcoins.info]

==See Also==

* [[:Category:Digital_currencies|Digital Currencies]]
* [[Selling bitcoins]]
* [[Secure Trading]]
* [[Bitcoin Ladder]]
* [[:Category:Local|Local]] exchanges

[[Category:Exchanges]]
[[Category:Introduction]]
[[zh-cn:购买bitcoins]]
[[ru:Приобретение биткойнов]]