If you think Bitcoin is just an alternative currency for geeks, it's time to think again. Grokking Bitcoin opens up this powerful distributed ledger system, exploring the technology that enables applications both for Bitcoin-based financial transactions and using the blockchain for registering physical property ownership. With this fully illustrated, easy-to-read guide, you'll finally understand how Bitcoin works, how you can use it, and why you can trust the blockchain. You'll discover how to accept and exchange Bitcoin, participate in the Bitcoin network, set up a digital wallet, and even how Bitcoin mining works. Along the way, you'll dive into the underlying security and distributed system concepts that power Bitcoin. Each chapter is loaded with diagrams and exercises to help you gain a true understanding of each interesting topic.