Bitcoin vs. Blockchain – Differences Explained

The following discussion aims to build on this fundamental difference between Bitcoin vs. Blockchain and explain how they fit perfectly in the domain of cryptocurrencies.

The popularity of cryptocurrencies has experienced a substantial boost in recent times, fostered by rising demand for digital transformation. With the rising use of cryptocurrencies as critical resources for money-making, there have been many debates surrounding the implications of cryptocurrencies. One of the prominent debates that pop up in the case of any discussions about cryptocurrencies refers to the Bitcoin vs. Blockchain differences.

Although many people are utilizing the functionalities of both blockchain and Bitcoin, there is substantial confusion regarding both the terms. Here it is important to note that blockchain is a technology. On the other hand, Bitcoin is the first example of successful implementation of blockchain technology.

In order to start a discussion on difference between Bitcoin and Blockchain, it is essential to understand both terms contextually. Let us begin with the technology itself, Blockchain!

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Blockchain

Blockchain is basically a digital payment or transaction gateway that allows recording of transactions between two parties. It works as a distributed ledger technology that supports multiple parties in transactions, sharing valuable data and pool in their resources with higher security and tamper proof assurance. While many people consider the Bitcoin vs. Blockchain relationship quite seriously, the latter was initially conceptualized in 1991.

The basic structure of blockchain is one of the prominent reasons for its diverse functionalities while increasing the difficulty of understanding and potentially regulating blockchain applications. The three most important components in the decentralized design of blockchain include blocks, nodes, and miners and they are essential for blockchain to work perfectly.  Here’s an overview of what each of these components has to contribute to the functionality of blockchain.

Blocks are the most fundamental part of blockchain as each chain is built of blocks containing all the relevant information regarding a transaction. Every block features a unique hash and nonce stored linearly, as well as with a timestamp at the end of the blockchain. The increase in size of the chain creates difficulties for reverting, manipulation, or disruption of the chain.

Nodes are a prominent factor for establishing decentralization with blockchain. The nodes ensure that a specific organization cannot control ownership of the blockchain. As a result, they can ensure maintenance of integrity in blockchain alongside preventing privacy breaches through unsystematic or systematic information exchanges.

Miners are the individuals responsible for creation of multiple blocks by solving complex mathematical problems. The structure of surrounding environment in a blockchain has a prominent impact on the complexity of tasks required for creating multiple blocks.

Contextual Definition of Blockchain

You can notice how the contextual definition of blockchain provides certain clarification regarding the difference between Bitcoin and Blockchain. It is generally assumed as a time-stamped series of immutable data records under the management of an assortment of computers, which are not under ownership of a single entity. Blockchain certifications will help you better understand the context behind this technology.

All the blocks are highly secure alongside offering better integration with each other by leveraging cryptographic processes. So, what exactly is unique about blockchain? First of all, blockchain does not impose any concern regarding the pressure of a central authority. As a matter of fact, blockchain showcases the perfect example of a democratized system for transactions.

Most important of all, the immutable and shared nature of the ledger allows better transparency and visibility of its information. All the solutions on blockchain are characterized with better transparency and clarity alongside implying liabilities of all involved parties for any modifications to the chain. Furthermore, blockchain provides a significant functionality of zero transaction costs. On the other hand, there are many types of blockchain technology unlike Bitcoin.

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Bitcoins

After reflecting on the definition of blockchain, let us take a look at the other player in Bitcoin vs. Blockchain debate. Bitcoin is basically one of the first cryptocurrencies that leveraged blockchain technology to offer peer-to-peer payments. Bitcoin is capable of offering considerably lower transaction fees in comparison to renowned payment gateways by leveraging a decentralized network.

Users can acquire a Bitcoin wallet or software for sending, receiving, and storing funds with exceptional levels of security. Anyone can download the Bitcoin wallet or software on their phone, PC, or any other digital device according to their preference. Secondly, users have to earn Bitcoins by trading, requesting clients for Bitcoin payments, or playing online games based on Bitcoin.

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How Is Bitcoin Different from Fiat Currencies?

The most striking highlight about Bitcoin is the fact that it is not similar to currencies that are under the governance of a central banking system. Bitcoins do not have physical storage on any platform and can leverage mathematical algorithms for safeguarding a string of numbers housed in a public and private key.

In the most basic sense, public key is same as the bank account number, and the private key is the ATM pin of the customer. It is possible to divide a Bitcoin into 8 decimal places, and the smallest unit is referred to as Satoshi. Another prominent factor that turns in favor of Bitcoin in the difference between Bitcoin and Blockchain is the simplicity of Bitcoin transactions.

Almost any interested individual can understand Bitcoin transactions with the right amount of interest in the same. As a matter of fact, Bitcoin presents a better and convenient approach for making or obtaining payments. Just create your wallet on a Bitcoin trading platform, followed by specifying its address on any digital currency platform.

Many retailers have already clarified doubts about Bitcoin vs. Blockchain, with some still doubting the legality of Bitcoins. Bitcoins obviously call for a combined approach to review banking regulations, privacy policies, and technological innovation. However, as long as you have the right local hardware for storing Bitcoin, you don’t have to worry about losing your Bitcoins. So, Bitcoins also come with the assurance of security for your finances stored in Bitcoins.

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Differentiating Between Blockchain and Bitcoin

Now, it is important to note that the relationship between Bitcoin and Blockchain is that of application and technology. However, many people can commonly confuse blockchain with Bitcoin. The primary reason for such confusion is the fact that Bitcoin was the first commonly known application of blockchain technology. Therefore, it was successful in turning people’s perception towards believing that Bitcoin is basis of all blockchain technologies.

On the other hand, the larger benefits of blockchain have gained recognition in recent times. Blockchain has slowly improved its capabilities for addressing the requirements of enterprises across various industries. So, let us take a look at the differences between blockchain and Bitcoin to obtain deeper insights into their implications.

• What are Bitcoins and Blockchain?

Let us start focusing on the Bitcoin vs. Blockchain difference by taking the definitions into account. Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology for recording transactions between two parties with better efficiency. On the other hand, Bitcoin is the world’s most popular cryptocurrency. Presently, you can find more than 4000 alternative variants of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in circulation.

There are no central banks or administrating authority for Bitcoins, thereby enabling transactions between users on a peer-to-peer Bitcoin network without any requirement of intermediaries. Blockchain is the underlying technology for every cryptocurrency alternative. However, blockchain is not limited only to Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency. Blockchain can find a wide range of applications across different sectors.

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• Potential Applications

The next important pointer for differentiating Bitcoin vs. Blockchain refers to their potential applications. The origins of blockchain reflected on the need for a technology to facilitate a low-cost, secure, and safe environment to enable peer-to-peer transactions. It aims at reducing the involvement of unnecessary intermediaries.

In addition, blockchain is suitable for reliable data storage and access due to its identity as a distributed ledger. On the other hand, Bitcoin was developed with the objective of speeding up cross-border transactions. Subsequently, Bitcoins also aim at simplifying payment systems by excluding third-party intermediaries while reducing government control over transactions.

• Real World Use Cases

Although the potential applications of Blockchain and Bitcoin present both of them favorably, the real-world use cases of both can qualify as a striking Bitcoin vs. Blockchain difference. In the case of real-world use cases, Bitcoin does not have any advantage at all. It is restricted in its functionality as a currency. On the other hand, blockchain can be suitable for transferring anything that has value, including currency, stocks, or property titles.

Blockchain technologies also present many promising use cases across private and public sectors. Some of the examples of using blockchain technology in public sector include the storage of public health records and land registries, identity management systems, and immutable voting platforms. Big tech giants are also capitalizing on blockchain technology in the private sector with massive investments.

Blockchain has evolved as a favorable alternative for solutions in the fintech and banking industry. Furthermore, blockchain has also found applications in logistics and supply chain management for achieving better transparency alongside immutable transaction registry. Another striking detail about the real-world use cases of blockchain technology refers to the interest of other industries in it.

The top industries which are taking initial steps towards blockchain adoption include the automobile industry, music, aviation, telecom, and entertainment industries. Most important of all, blockchain also presents opportunities for designing smart contracts that help stakeholders in exchanging goods by excluding expensive intermediaries.

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• Scope

The Bitcoin vs. Blockchain difference also takes the scope for both into account to establish clarity. Blockchain showcases a promising scope with its productive growth over the course of the last decade. In the present times, blockchain technology is all slated to see an upward trend. Many governments are constantly launching blockchain initiatives, and selecting blockchain technology also ensures better transparency, security, and trust for their systems.

On the other hand, Bitcoin does not present any promising indications in terms of its scope. While certain countries have already embraced the concept of Bitcoins openly, many other governments have imposed restrictions or bans on Bitcoin. Furthermore, it is essential to note that Bitcoin does not qualify legally as a replacement for the legal tender of a country.

• Underpinning Strategy

Another critical factor for differentiating Bitcoin vs. Blockchain is the underlying strategy. Bitcoin follows a strategy of reducing cost of influencers while also reducing the time of transactions. However, Bitcoin presents a notable setback in terms of its flexibility. Users need a Bitcoin wallet and depend on selected methods for earning Bitcoins such as trading, mining, or depending on Bitcoin payments.

On the other hand, blockchain technology does not have any restrictions like Bitcoin. As a matter of fact, blockchain is gaining recognition largely on the basis of its abilities for catering to the needs of different industries. Blockchain can adapt to different changes perfectly and serve various use cases desired by users.

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• Existing Status

The final aspect of Bitcoin vs. Blockchain difference refers to the existing status of both. Bitcoin is most likely to continue maintaining its anonymity. Although users can witness the transactions in the ledger, they cannot interpret the numbers in a specific sequence. On the contrary, blockchain works with various businesses and requires following all the compliance requirements.

Blockchain can ensure ease of compliance with support for KYC as well as other norms. As a result, blockchain can deliver comprehensive transparency in the long term. So, you can notice how blockchain has a substantial advantage over Bitcoin. Let us summarize the differences between them in the following table.

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Conclusion

As you can witness clearly, blockchain is the larger set that includes Bitcoin as one of its contents. Bitcoin vs. Blockchain has the potential to revolutionize the conventional approaches followed for financial and business transactions. In the modern era of digital transformation, both these technologies have unique implications.

Therefore, it is important to clarify the differences between them for understanding the ideal choice according to your use cases. You can explore more about the functionalities of blockchain and Bitcoin to understand how each of them has unique implications. We recommend starting with our free blockchain fundamental course, which will cover most of the basic elements.

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*Disclaimer: The article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide any investment advice. Claims made in this article do not constitute investment advice and should not be taken as such. 101 Blockchains shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this article. Do your own research!