Cryptocurrency is a digital form of currency that uses cryptography to secure transactions sent over a public, peer-to-peer network. It operates using a decentralized ledger technology called blockchain. 

Need more information? Head over to our Learn Center guide What is cryptocurrency?

You can buy cryptocurrency in many different ways. The easiest and most popular way to buy crypto is using online crypto platforms like Kraken. These allow you to buy crypto using fiat currency or other digital assets.

You can also buy crypto through mobile payment apps like Cash App, peer-to-peer trading websites, and crypto ATMs.

Check out this article for all the different ways you can fund your Kraken account in order to buy crypto today.

You can store the access to your cryptocurrencies in digital wallets. These can be hardware, software, or paper-based, depending on your preference for security and accessibility.

You can download or use many of these crypto wallet services for free, but it’s important to do your own research beforehand to find out which option is best for you.

Need more information? Head over to our Learn Center guide What are custodial and non-custodial crypto wallets?

Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that people use to record data in a publicly transparent and immutable way. This type of technology is most often used to record and manage cryptocurrency transaction data, however other industries also use blockchains to store other types of data.

No single government or institution manages a public blockchain. Instead, a network of volunteers, called nodes, collaboratively runs the blockchain software on their own computers. You can think of blockchains like community-run online databases. These distributed systems mean blockchains can be much more secure than traditional data storage facilities, as they have no single point of failure.

Find out more in this article, What is blockchain technology?

Using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and storing your cryptocurrency in secure wallets (preferably cold storage) are all ways in which you can safeguard your crypto funds from hackers. Educating yourself on the most common threats can also prevent you from falling foul to scams and phishing attacks.

We recommend reading our How to keep your crypto safe guide for useful security tips.

Keeping up to date with the latest crypto news can be important for things like catching on to new trends and managing your crypto trades.  

Familiarize yourself with reputable cryptocurrency news websites, forums, and social media channels to stay informed about market developments.

Beyond the Kraken Learn Center, some leading examples include CoinDesk, Blockworks, Decrypt and the r/cryptocurrency subreddit on Reddit.com.