What bitcoin is all about?

Bitcoin is a digital, peer-to-peer currency that doesn't rely on banks or governments to function. Transactions are verified by network nodes through cryptography and recorded in a public dispersed ledger called a blockchain. Bitcoin is unique in that there are a finite number of them: 21 million. Bitcoins can be used to purchase goods and services, or exchanged for other currencies, both online and offline. As with anything else, there are risks associated with using bitcoin, but overall it's a very secure and convenient way to handle transactions.