What is cryptocurrency?
A cryptocurrency is a digital asset that can be transferred through a computer network. Bitcoin is one example. Other assets have different designs and uses. A coin's price can change quickly, and owning one is not the same as keeping money in an insured savings account.
What is a blockchain?
Think of it as a shared record of transactions. A network of computers checks and updates that record according to agreed rules. Networks differ in who can use them, how they reach agreement, and what it costs to send a transaction.
What does a wallet do?
A crypto wallet helps you control the keys used to authorize transactions. It does not hold coins like a physical wallet holds cash. You may manage the keys yourself or use a provider that holds them for you. Each option has responsibilities and risks.
See the wallet safety checklist →How is this different from banking?
A credit union account is a relationship with a regulated institution. Eligible deposits at a federally insured credit union have share insurance. A crypto asset is different: its market value can fall, transactions may be difficult or impossible to reverse, and the asset itself is not NCUA insured.
Start here with Coinbase.
New to crypto? Start by understanding where people buy and sell it.
What is a cryptocurrency exchange?
An exchange is an online marketplace where you can use dollars to buy cryptocurrency, sell it back into dollars, or trade one cryptocurrency for another. It provides a bridge between traditional money and digital assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Why Coinbase?
Coinbase is an established, publicly traded cryptocurrency company with a user-friendly platform for buying, selling, and managing crypto. Its straightforward interface makes it an approachable starting point for beginners.
Take it one step at a time
- Create your account and follow Coinbase's identity verification process.
- Secure your login with a unique password and two-step verification.
- Explore the platform before buying, and review the fees before confirming a transaction.
You don't need to buy a whole Bitcoin—you can purchase a small fraction. Learn first, start small, and only invest money you can afford to lose.
Referral disclosure: I may earn a reward if you sign up and meet Coinbase's requirements through this link.
Already trading? Explore Coinbase Advanced.
Coinbase Advanced is designed for experienced traders who want detailed charts, technical indicators, and more control over orders, including market, limit, and stop-limit orders. Review its fee schedule and understand how each order type works before trading.
Explore Coinbase AdvancedReferral disclosure: I may earn a reward if you sign up and meet Coinbase's requirements through this link.
Common questions
Do I have to buy a whole bitcoin?
No. Bitcoin can be divided into smaller units. One bitcoin equals 100 million satoshis.
Do I need to buy crypto to learn?
No. You can learn how networks, payments, and wallets work without opening an account or spending money.
Is every digital payment cryptocurrency?
No. A card payment, bank transfer, and crypto transfer may all happen on a screen, but they operate through different systems and protections.