How do Bitcoin transactions work?

Bitcoin transactions are messages that state the movement of bitcoins from senders to receivers. Transactions are digitally signed using cryptography and sent to the entire Bitcoin network for verification. Transaction information is public and can be found on the digital ledger known as the 'blockchain.' The history of each and every Bitcoin transaction leads back to the point where the bitcoins were first produced or 'mined.’

How do Bitcoin transactions work?

Use the multichain Bitcoin.com Wallet app, trusted by millions to safely and easily send, receive, buy, sell, trade, and manage the most popular cryptocurrencies. You can also connect to thousands of decentralized applications (DApps), from games to financial derivatives.

Table of Contents

  1. Overview
  2. Bitcoins exist as records of Bitcoin transactions
  3. Public and private keys
  4. Transaction inputs and outputs
  5. Broadcasting and confirmations
  6. Why do some bitcoin transaction confirmations take so long?
  7. How much are bitcoin transaction fees?

Buy as little as $30 worth to get started

Buy as little as $30 worth to get started

Choose from Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, and more

Related guides

A quick intro to Bitcoin

A quick intro to Bitcoin

Get a straightforward introduction to Bitcoin and why it matters.

A quick intro to Bitcoin

A quick intro to Bitcoin

Get a straightforward introduction to Bitcoin and why it matters.

How does bitcoin exchange work?

How does bitcoin exchange work?

How safe is it to store your crypto on centralized exchanges?

How does bitcoin exchange work?

How does bitcoin exchange work?

How safe is it to store your crypto on centralized exchanges?

What is Bitcoin governance?

What is Bitcoin governance?

How does the network operate and decide on critical issues?

What is Bitcoin governance?

What is Bitcoin governance?

How does the network operate and decide on critical issues?

What is Bitcoin?

What is Bitcoin?

Get a straightforward introduction to Bitcoin and why it matters.

What is Bitcoin?

What is Bitcoin?

Get a straightforward introduction to Bitcoin and why it matters.

What is Bitcoin Cash?

What is Bitcoin Cash?

Bitcoin Cash is a decentralized peer-to-peer electronic cash system that does not rely on any central authority like a government or financial institution.

What is Bitcoin Cash?

What is Bitcoin Cash?

Bitcoin Cash is a decentralized peer-to-peer electronic cash system that does not rely on any central authority like a government or financial institution.

Bitcoin.com in your inbox

A weekly rundown of the news that matters, plus educational resources and updates on products & services that support economic freedom