Generally, the mining operation requires three basic components: the mining software and hardware, as well as a crypto wallet.
Mining programs are specialized software that allows you to mine cryptocurrency. You install the software and perform key configurations, and the mining process starts automatically. However, there are many criteria to consider. After all, programs work on specific operating systems only and have specific PC demands. You also require high-quality hardware and an excellent crypto wallet.
To save you time, we have collected tips on how to choose the right equipment for beginners. So, hurry up to free your busy schedule. One can always rely on outsourcing and reach out to a dissertation writing service; then you can take your first step into the mining world. This definitely won’t be boring!
Understand How Programs Work
Here’s what you need to know about mining software in the first place. The program links the device to the specific network. The user provides the system with their computing power, and it gives them a reward which is a digital currency. Thus, there are two essential things. And they are great computing power and high-quality software.
As a rule, installing and configuring a mining program doesn’t cause any problems. Plus, there are usually instructions provided.
The major function of mining programs is to perform calculations. Having opened new blocks, mining has begun to become more complicated. That’s why powerful software is so crucial. It usually includes:
- Increasing the speed of the video card for mining;
- Configuring the capacities used;
- Protecting the hardware from overheating.
Decide Which Cryptocurrency You Will Mine
Actually, the algorithm is simple. Which cryptocurrency are you going to mine? The most widespread option is bitcoin.
Of course, it is better that you study all coins inside and out, as your income and satisfaction level depend on it. Yes, the potential of cryptocurrencies can be overwhelming, but there are always pitfalls that you need to be aware of. Each cryptocurrency is based on a certain encryption algorithm. This way, Bitcoin uses SHA-256, Litecoin uses Scrypt, etc.
Study the Production Capacity of Your Tools
If the power of your video card is 60 MH/s, then choose a program designed for this power. When going for software with a lower one, you risk losing part of the profit. At the same time, the hardware can easily fail or overheat if you download a higher power one.
In fact, this action plan has a lot in common with picking out a design for your room. If the space is small, you are likely to think about minimalistic ideas to get the most out of what you already have. It’s the same with equipment – make it work for you.
Does the selected mining program have additional functionality? This may include integration with news resources, mining statistics, background operation, and equipment status monitoring.
Now, let’s move on to picking up the best hardware.
Pay Attention To The Hashrate
This indicator plays a huge role. After all, the hashrate determines how many coins will be mined and how much time it will take. The hashing range is from 3.65 to 115 TH/s. As experts say, 12-16 TH/s will be the most suitable for working at home.
Explore The CPU Frequency
Another factor for your research is CPU frequency. It determines the number of operations that the ASIC can perform per second. The higher the frequency, the better. The average ranges are 600-650 MHz.
Consider Power Consumption
The high power of the ASIC miner requires a large amount of electricity. Be sure to keep it in mind before making a purchase. The range of energy consumption is from 1,100 to 16,500 W/h.
Don’t Ignore The Need For Cooling
Scared of losing your hardware because of the enormous workload? Two cooling fans will protect it from overheating. But remember that many of them create a lot of noise.
Remember About the Warranty Period
Since the equipment operates 24/7, coolers and other components may break quite fast. Of course, you may try to improve its performance, as you do with your other devices. But the warranty period is life-saving: the average one is typically six periods.
Below, we present the third part of our guide, which is selecting a crypto wallet to receive and send digital currency. There are three core versions of it.
Check Out Online Wallets
Activating a wallet like this has a lot in common with creating a mailbox. No programs will be installed on your PC or phone. Sure, such wallets are easy to register. However, they have some disadvantages. Why?
Online wallets are quite insecure as the data is stored on a server. To protect users from hacker attacks, developers implemented additional security measures. They are two-factor authentication, multi-signatures, and confirmation via SMS.
The best thing you can do to find a reliable option is to consider the website’s reputation and its functionality. For instance, does the wallet support several cryptocurrencies simultaneously?
Here are some cool ones for you to discover: Cryptopay, StrongCoin, Xapo, Coinkite, Blockchain, GreenAddress, and Hive.
Read About Desktop Wallets
These wallets are simple to download from websites and install on your computer. The first ones are full-fledged versions of the programs with impressive functions, including mining as well. But nothing is perfect, as they require a lot of free space (some need more than 200 GB), as well as a longer operating time.
We highly recommend using wallets from cryptocurrency developers, for example, Bitcoin Core or Ethereum Wallet. They are secure but less functional as they support only one cryptocurrency. One of the most popular ones is Coinomi, Exodus, and Jaxx.
Examine Mobile Wallets
Perhaps the most widespread crypto wallet platform today is mobile devices.
Typically, any mobile app enables you to create an address for storing coins. The same goes for receiving and sending transactions. At the same time, such wallets differ in settings and functions. For example, a wallet can support other cryptocurrencies or provide additional privacy options when sending a transfer.
Here are our recommendations: Mycelium, Exodus, Trust Wallet, Atomic Wallet, Electrum, Coinomi, and Samourai Wallet.
The advantages of mobile wallets include the ability to access your bitcoins anywhere and at any time, a convenient user interface, and support for other cryptocurrencies. In addition, mobile wallets often have a built-in function for generating a QR code for paying for goods and services with bitcoin.
To Wrap It Up
All in all, the use of specially designed equipment for mining digital currencies is relatively new. The reason for it is simple – there was explosive growth in the field. That’s why miners from all over the world aim to achieve the most effective result.
As for mining programs, they allow you to manage the process, adjusting it to your possibilities and needs. There is a long list of such software, and almost all options are free. We’ve also focused on studying crypto wallets, allowing you to find the one which suits your expectations.