Bitcoin is the first decentralized digital currency. It was created in 2009 by an unknown person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin operates on a peer-to-peer network without the need for intermediaries and is often referred to as digital gold due to its scarcity and store of value properties.
Ethereum is an open-source, blockchain-based platform launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin. It allows developers to build and deploy decentralized applications (dApps) using smart contracts. Ether (ETH) is the native cryptocurrency of the Ethereum network and is used to fuel transactions and pay for computational services.
Ripple is a digital payment protocol that operates on an open-source and peer-to-peer decentralized platform. Its native cryptocurrency, XRP, is designed to facilitate fast and low-cost cross-border transactions. Ripple aims to bridge the gap between traditional financial institutions and blockchain technology.
Litecoin is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency created by Charlie Lee in 2011. It was designed as a faster and cheaper alternative to Bitcoin, with a block generation time of 2.5 minutes compared to Bitcoin's 10 minutes. Litecoin uses a different hashing algorithm called Scrypt.
Cardano is a blockchain platform that aims to provide a more secure and scalable infrastructure for the development of decentralized applications and smart contracts. Founded by Charles Hoskinson in 2017, Cardano is known for its focus on peer-reviewed academic research and a layered architecture.
Polkadot is a multi-chain blockchain platform that enables interoperability between different blockchains. Founded by Dr. Gavin Wood, one of the co-founders of Ethereum, Polkadot allows independent blockchains to share information and transactions securely.
Stellar is an open network designed to facilitate cross-asset transfers of value, including payments. Founded by Jed McCaleb in 2014, Stellar aims to provide low-cost financial services to unbanked populations and enable efficient cross-border transactions.
Chainlink is a decentralized oracle network that aims to connect smart contracts with real-world data. It enables smart contracts to securely interact with external data sources, APIs, and payment systems. Chainlink's native token, LINK, is used as collateral and incentivization for node operators.
Dogecoin started as a meme cryptocurrency based on the popular "Doge" meme featuring a Shiba Inu dog. Created in 2013 by Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer, Dogecoin was initially intended as a fun and lighthearted digital currency but gained a supportive community and widespread popularity.
Uniswap is a decentralized finance (DeFi) protocol that facilitates automated token swaps on the Ethereum blockchain. It allows users to trade ERC-20 tokens directly from their wallets without the need for an intermediary. Uniswap uses liquidity pools and an automated market maker (AMM) system.