How to Use Bitcoin

Your complete guide to buying, storing, and using Bitcoin safely. From your first purchase to advanced techniques - we'll walk you through every step.

1
Choose Wallet
2
Buy Bitcoin
3
Store Safely
4
Use & Transact

Complete Learning Path

From beginner to advanced Bitcoin user in simple steps

Beginner Friendly
Security First
Practical
Expert Support

Getting Started

Follow these simple steps to begin your Bitcoin journey safely and confidently.

1

Choose a Bitcoin Wallet

A Bitcoin wallet is your digital safe for storing Bitcoin. Think of it like a bank account for your Bitcoin.

Mobile Wallets

Easy to use, perfect for beginners (e.g., Exodus, Trust Wallet)

Desktop Wallets

More features, good for regular users (e.g., Electrum)

Hardware Wallets

Maximum security for larger amounts (e.g., Ledger, Trezor)

2

Buy Your First Bitcoin

Purchase Bitcoin from a reputable exchange using your bank account, debit card, or credit card.

Popular Exchanges

Coinbase, Binance, Kraken, Gemini

Payment Methods

Bank transfer, debit/credit card, PayPal

Verification

Complete identity verification (KYC) for security

3

Secure Your Bitcoin

Transfer your Bitcoin from the exchange to your personal wallet for maximum security and control.

Private Keys

Your wallet gives you control of your private keys

Backup Your Wallet

Write down your recovery phrase and store it safely

Enable Security Features

Use PIN codes, biometrics, and two-factor authentication

4

Start Using Bitcoin

Begin sending, receiving, and using your Bitcoin for purchases and transactions.

Send Bitcoin

Use recipient's Bitcoin address to send payments

Receive Bitcoin

Share your Bitcoin address or QR code

Make Purchases

Buy goods and services from Bitcoin-accepting merchants

Ready to Start Your Bitcoin Journey?

Take the first step towards financial freedom with Bitcoin

Choose Your Wallet

Different wallets offer different features and security levels. Find the perfect Bitcoin wallet for your needs.

Mobile Wallets

Perfect for everyday use and beginners

Easy to use
Quick transactions
QR code scanning
Online connectivity

Popular Options:

Exodus
Trust Wallet
BlueWallet
Mycelium

Desktop Wallets

More features and better privacy

Advanced features
Better privacy
Full node option
Computer required

Popular Options:

Electrum
Bitcoin Core
Wasabi
Sparrow

Hardware Wallets

Maximum security for large amounts

Offline security
Hack resistant
Physical backup
Cost $50-200

Popular Options:

Ledger
Trezor
BitBox
Coldcard

Security Best Practices

Follow these essential security practices to keep your Bitcoin safe

Backup Your Wallet

Write down your recovery phrase and store it in multiple secure locations

Use Strong Passwords

Create unique, strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication

Verify Downloads

Only download wallets from official sources and verify signatures

Keep It Private

Never share your private keys, seed phrases, or wallet passwords

Buying & Using Bitcoin

Learn the practical aspects of buying Bitcoin and using it for real-world transactions.

Buying Bitcoin

Popular Exchanges

Choose a reputable exchange to buy your first Bitcoin:

Coinbase
Beginner friendly
Binance
Low fees
Kraken
High security
Gemini
Regulated

Payment Methods

Bank Transfer

Lowest fees, 1-3 business days

Debit/Credit Card

Instant, higher fees (3-5%)

PayPal

Available on some platforms

Pro Tip

Start with a small amount to learn the process, then increase your purchases as you become more comfortable.

Using Bitcoin

Sending Bitcoin

1

Get the recipient's Bitcoin address

2

Enter the amount to send

3

Set transaction fee (higher fee = faster confirmation)

4

Double-check details and confirm

Receiving Bitcoin

Share Your Address

Generate a QR code or copy your Bitcoin address

Wait for Confirmation

Transactions typically confirm in 10-60 minutes

Important

Bitcoin transactions are irreversible. Always double-check addresses before sending.

Understanding Transaction Fees

Bitcoin fees depend on network congestion and transaction priority

Low Priority

$0.50 - $2

Confirmation in 1-6 hours

Medium Priority

$2 - $5

Confirmation in 30-60 minutes

High Priority

$5 - $20+

Confirmation in 10-30 minutes

Where Can You Use Bitcoin?

Online Shopping

Microsoft, Overstock, Newegg, and thousands of other retailers

Food & Dining

Many restaurants accept Bitcoin, especially in crypto-friendly cities

Travel

Book flights, hotels, and travel experiences with Bitcoin

Gift Cards

Buy gift cards for major retailers using Bitcoin