CRYPTO
ASSETS
Many people refer to this new Asset class as cryptocurrencies. Although many of the Assets traded through this new cryptographic digital platform are currencies many are not. I have found through research that most fall into three categories.
Cryptocurrency:
A traded asset for which the primary function is to act as a currency for transactions between two accounts.
Examples:
Bitcoin BTC
Litecoin LTC
Monero XMR
Cryptocommodity:
A traded asset that has a currency which holds value but its primary function is to provide a utility. This utility allows for smart contracts and a platform for other Assets build their own businesses on top of using blockchain technology.
Example:
Ethereum ETH
Cryptotoken:
A traded asset which is used primarily to participate in a service or reward people for the use of a service.
Example
ERC tokens
CRYPTO
ASSETS
BLOCKCHAIN
TECHNOLOGY
A blockchain is the use of network of computers and an electronic distributed ledger which allows for an immutable record of any type of transaction to be recorded in a manner in which fraudulent transactions are nearly impossible. The ledger in most cases is always available for all to see. The strongest part of this concept comes from the decentralized nature in which these networks operate. By taking away the singular control from the verification of the transaction the possibility for fraud is greatly reduced if not eliminated all together. This technology originated with Bitcoin for use in currency transactions but has moved far past being used only for this purpose. It is quickly being adopted by all major industries as a way to objectively keep track of contracts, records and transactions in real time.
2 FACTOR AUTHENTICATION
These are alternative methods or external applications which interface with your accounts. They generate a code which is only accessible through your mobile device and are required to be entered to complete selected functions. Once the QR code for a given service is issued it many times is no longer acccessible so it's important to keep records of them.
THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT SERVICE YOU CAN OBTAIN TO SECURE YOUR ACCOUNTS. YOU SHOULD NOT HOLD ANY ACCOUNT WITHOUT IT.
Wallets
HARDWARE WALLETS
Hardware wallets are a seperate device you connect to your computer which stores the keys to access the account offline when not connected to the computer. You are given a seed phrase to recover your account in the event of a malfunction of the device the App is located on. This is the most secure method of storage.
SOFTWARE WALLETS
Software wallets are applications that allow you to store Cryptoassets which run on your computer or phone. Your key are stored on the device which the App is installed and which can leave you vulnerable to being hacked and having your keys stolen. You are given a seed phrase to recover your account in the event of a malfunction of the device the App is located on.