๐ง Bitcoin Core
Bitcoin Core is the reference implementation of Bitcoin. It's the software that implements the Bitcoin protocol and acts as the backbone of the Bitcoin network. Learn about the development process and how to contribute.
Bitcoin Core is the original, open-source software that acts as the engine of the Bitcoin network. It is the primary implementation of the Bitcoin protocolโthe set of rules that everyone on the network agrees to follow. It isn't a company; it's a collaborative project built by developers worldwide.
๐ฅ๏ธ What is a Full Node?
When you run the Bitcoin Core software, your computer becomes a full node. A full node is a guardian of the network. It plays a crucial role by:
๐ Downloading the entire blockchain
It keeps a complete copy of every transaction ever made.
โ Validating transactions and blocks
It independently verifies that all network rules are being followed, ensuring no one can cheat, spend coins they don't have, or create money out of thin air.
๐ก Broadcasting transactions
It helps pass along new transactions to other nodes across the globe.
By running a full node, you don't have to trust anyone else to tell you the state of the network. You are your own bank, validator, and auditor. The more independent full nodes there are, the more robust and decentralized Bitcoin becomes.
๐ฅ Who Develops Bitcoin Core?
Bitcoin Core has no CEO or formal hierarchy. It is a free and open-source software (FOSS) project maintained by a global community of contributors.
๐ Decentralized Team
Developers from all over the world contribute voluntarily. They are not employees of a single company.
๐ Open Process
Anyone can view the source code, report bugs, and suggest improvements.
๐ Merit-Based
Changes are accepted based on technical merit and peer review, not on authority.
This open model prevents any single entity from controlling Bitcoin's development and ensures that its evolution serves the best interests of all users.
๐ The Bitcoin Improvement Proposal (BIP) Process
Significant changes to Bitcoin are made through a formal, public process called the Bitcoin Improvement Proposal (BIP). This ensures that the network evolves in a careful and transparent way.
Idea & Draft
A developer proposes an idea and writes a detailed technical document (a BIP).
Community Review
The BIP is published and rigorously debated by the community on platforms like the Bitcoin developer mailing list and GitHub.
Implementation
If there is strong consensus around the proposal, developers write the code.
Activation
The code is included in a new release of Bitcoin Core. For the change to be activated on the network, it must be adopted by a majority of users, nodes, and miners.
This meticulous process ensures that updates are secure, well-tested, and have broad support before being implemented.
๐ How to Be a Part of It
Anyone can contribute to the strength and security of the Bitcoin network.
๐ฅ๏ธ Run a Full Node
This is the most direct way to participate. By running your own node, you help enforce the rules and increase the network's decentralization.
Hardware Requirements:
- A desktop or laptop computer with a recent version of Windows, macOS, or Linux
- Around 500 GB of free disk space (this grows over time)
- At least 2 GB of RAM
- A broadband internet connection with an upload speed of at least 500 kilobits (0.5 megabits) per second
Get Started:
Download Bitcoin Core: Visit bitcoincore.org to download the latest version.
Setup Guides: Follow detailed, user-friendly guides at bitcoin.org/en/full-node.
๐ค Contribute in Other Ways
Even if you're not a developer, you can help:
๐ฐ Fund Development
Support the independent developers who work on Bitcoin Core full-time by donating to grant-giving organizations like Brink and OpenSats.
๐ Report Bugs
If you find a problem, report it on the Bitcoin Core GitHub page.
๐ Review & Translate
Help review documentation or translate content into other languages to make Bitcoin more accessible globally.