Glossary

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51 % Attack


Also known as "Majority Attack". An event that's happening when a group of miners is controlling more than half of the network power, which poses a threat to the integrity of the blockchain.

A

Address


Can also be called "Wallet Address". An Address is a virtual location where the cryptocurrency can be sent. It is a unique alphanumeric character string that defines the transactions made on a blockchain network.


Airdrop


Represents a marketing process with the purpose of promoting a new virtual currency. The process involves sending tokens or coins to various Wallet Addresses.


Algorithm


An algorithm is a set of rules designed to perform a specific task, regardless if it is a simple or complex process.


All or None Order (AON)


A type of order different from e.g. a market order. This order is made on a financial exchange to buy or sell assets for a certain price, and must be either completely filled or not at all.


All-Time High (ATH)


Represents the highest price reached by a digital currency or equity on a specific exchange.


Allocation


Represents the distribution of tokens or equity, no matter if they are earned, purchased, etc.


Altcoin


A generic name given to all other cryptocurrencies that are not Bitcoin (the first cryptocurrency).


Anti Money Laundering (AML)


A process through which laws and regulations prevent the illegal making or moving of funds, assets and/or money.


API


Stands for Application Programming Interface and represents a set of functions and protocols which build and integrate application software. An API defines various calls or requests that can be made, how to make them, the data formats that should be used, etc.


API Gateway


An API Gateway is an API connection between a client and a specific backend service/services. It receives API calls, processes them by gathering the services needed to fulfill them, and returns the appropriate result (positive or negative).


API Key


An API key is a unique identifier passed to an API in order to identify the specific software that is making the call. API keys are used to track how one API is being used. A user requires an API key to make the API call in the first place.


API Limiting/ Rate Limiting


API limiting, also known as "Rate Limiting", or sometimes "Application Rate Limiting", is a process which limits the requests sent from an API, with the purpose of preventing the API from being overloaded. It is a main security measure against system errors, performance issues and DoS attacks.


Arbitrage


A process where a user takes advantage of an asset's varying prices on different markets, by purchasing and selling that same asset over and over again for a specific period of time.


ASIC


Stands for Application-specific integrated circuit. This is an integrated circuit chip dedicated to specifically reaching maximum performance for a particular use, rather than being generically used. Used for better mining of cryptocurrencies than using a traditional GPU.


ASIC-resistant


A cryptocurrency that is mining-resistant towards dedicated (ASIC) machines.


Asset Management


Represents the business method of managing assets - directly or on the behalf of a client.


Asynchronous


Processes that don’t occur simultaneously and happen independently of the basic program flow.


Atomic Swap


Smart contracts that ensure users exchange their cryptocurrencies for other without the need of using a centralized exchange.


Attack Surface


An attack on a software environment where a user can access and extract data from the system unauthorized, due to poor system security.


Authentication


Authentication is the process of a system recognizing and proving a user's identity, in order for them to use that specific software/service/API.


Authorization


Defines the function of specifying system access rights and privileges not to users, but rather resources, such as services, computer programs, data and application features.

B

Bag


The entirety of coins and tokens a user possesses. Usually refers to an amount of a single cryptocurrency. The amount has no minimum, though if it is too high it can be referred to as "heavy bags".


Bear Market


When prices on the crypto market follow negative trends.


Benchmark


A standard point of reference to analyze and see advantages and disadvantages of similar products.


Bitcoin


The first ever cryptocurrency, invented in 2008 and implemented as open-source software in 2009. It was created by an anonymous person known only as Satoshi Nakamoto.


Bitcoin Cash (BCH)


A cryptocurrency that stemmed from Bitcoin in 2017, i.e. an altcoin of Bitcoin. It was created by miners and developers who initiated a "hard fork". BCH includes an increased block size of 8 MB which enables more transactions to be processed, as well as increases scalability. In November 2018 BCH was split into Bitcoin Cash ABC, now known only as Bitcoin Cash, and Bitcoin Cash SV (Satoshi Vision).


Bitcoin Core


The main implementation of the software allowing people to actually be able to use the Bitcoin network.


Bitcoin Dominance


Represents Bitcoin's market value as compared to all other cryptocurrency markets.


Bitcoin Pizza


The first ever known transaction of Bitcoin for physical goods, which was done in May 2010 by a programmer named Laszlo Hanyecz who paid 10 000 BTC for two pizzas. The Bitcoin back then was valued at about USD 41.


Bitcoin Vault (BTCV)


Bitcoin Vault is a cryptocurrency based on Bitcoin Core and created in December 2019. It provides an additional level of security which is based on a three-private-key structure. It includes all advantages of Bitcoin while at the same time adds new features such as the user ability to cancel transactions, send Secure payments, etc.


Block/ Transaction block


The Block is an essential part of the blockchain. Each block contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, a timestamp, and transaction data. It basically acts as a ledger where its purpose is to record the most recent unentered Bitcoin transactions. Every new block is connected to the previous completed one.


Block explorer


A specific online tool used to check past or current transactions on a specific blockchain. It provides further details such as transaction growth and network hash rate and users can browse through it.


Block header


A section in the block that contains its metadata and a summary of its transactions with the purpose to identify that specific block on the blockchain. It is repeatedly hashed to create Proof of Work (PoW) for mining rewards.


Block height/ Height


The block height of a particular block is defined as the number of blocks preceding it in the blockchain starting from the genesis block.


Block reward


The entirety of coins granted by the blockchain protocol as a reward to miners for each mined and validated block.


Blockchain


Represents a digital decentralized ledger consisting of various blocks that are used to store information related to transactions which occur on a blockchain network.


Blockchain protocol


The rules that govern a blockchain network are known as "Blockchain protocol". It is essentially the common communication rules that the network operates by.


Bloom Filter


Represents a data structure used to inform the user whether a particular item is part of a set, or more accurately - inform with certainty if it is not part of a set. In some cryptocurrencies (mostly Bitcoin), the Bloom filter is essential for the Simplified Payment Verification (SPV).


BNB


A cryptocurrency token created by Binance in 2017. BNB was initially issued as an ERC-20 token.


Bounty


A posted incentive with the purpose of boosting a particular activity, conduct or advancement.


Breakeven Point (BEP)


The point where the total cost and the revenue are both equal.


Breakeven multiple


Represents by how much a coin or asset needs to be multiplied by in order to reach its Breakeven Point (BEP).


Bull Market


When prices on the crypto market follow positive trends.


Buy Wall


Represents one large purchase order or the compilation of multiple big purchase orders that are on the same price in an order book of a particular market. Buy walls basically prevents the dropping of market prices as such massive amounts of orders require large amounts of money to be paid/transferred.

C

Candidate Block


Represents a block a miner is in the process of mining in order to receive the block reward. Can also be known as "temporary block". It can be eventually either validated or discarded by the network.


Call/ API call


When a request from an endpoint is made to an application's server. Through this call information is transferred, processed, and a reply is returned.


Callback


A function that is activated after another one completes. E.g. receiving notifications on events. A callback requires a callback URL to be set.


Callback URL


A URL set upfront where the callback notification will be received, when it's time.


Censorship-resistance


Refers to the property of a cryptocurrency network and dictates that any user can make transactions on the network, as long as they follow the rules set by the protocol, and they cannot modify any already existing transactions.


Centralized


A concept of data and network distribution where these are governed by a single (centralized) entity (server, computer, etc.). Such a centralized system/network always needs a main controlling mechanism, otherwise it cannot operate properly.


Cipher


Can also be seen as "cypher". A method used in the encryption and decryption of values, which can be done either asymmetrically or symmetrically depending on the key type.


Circulating Supply


The number of all crypto coins and tokens that are publicly available and circulating on the market.


Client


A computer/program that sends a request to another program/hardware/software that accesses a service made available by a server.


Co-Custodial Wallet


Defines a type of Wallet which is a mix between Custodial and Non-Custodial. It allows the user to hold and manage their own key(s) and Wallet, but also provides a backup/emergency/recovery service from the provider.


Coin


A coin is digital cash generated via their own independent blockchain.


Cold Wallet


Cold wallet, known also as a "hardware wallet" or "offline wallet", stores the user's address and private key. Since it is not connected to the Internet, it cannot be compromised.


Confirmation


When the network has verified a blockchain transaction through the process of "mining". Once a transaction is successfully confirmed it cannot be reversed or double spent.


Confirmation Time


The elapsed time from submitting a blockchain transaction till the moment it is finally recorded in a validated block.


Contract account


One of the two types of accounts on the Ethereum blockchain. This account is controlled only by code and has no public-private keys involved. Since it uses networks storage, creating an account has a cost. Its execution is triggered by transactions or messages received from other contracts.


CPFP


Stands for Child Pays for Parent - a method used for an unprocessed "stuck" transaction which has too low of a fee, and the receiver has to pay a higher fee by broadcasting a new transaction and spending UTXO from the "stuck" transaction. This way the miners are motivated to mine the low-fee transaction ASAP.


Credit


Used to define spending limit on requests. Credits depend on the subscription tier you have to a Crypto APIs' product.


Cryptocurrency


A digital asset/currency which is verified by cryptography and hence is nearly impossible to counterfeit. It uses the blockchain technology and is distributed, exchanged and traded in a Peer-to-Peer network. Cryptocurrency payments and transactions are digital entries in an online database (ledger).


Cryptography


The study of utilizing numerical hypotheses and calculations so as to encrypt and decrypt data.


Custody/Custodial Wallet


Is also known as "custodial service" - the holding of assets on behalf of a client. In regards to cryptocurrency, it refers to when a third party holds the private keys to a user’s funds, which would make that third party the only one who can send and receive these coins. Refers also to a type of Digital Wallet.

D

DAC


Stands for Decentralized Autonomous Cooperative – an organization that is governed by its members and is not influenced by any centralized entity.


DAO


Stands for Decentralized Autonomous Organization – a system that was made popular due to Ethereum, which is controlled by hard-coded rules dictating what actions a decentralized organization should take next.


DApp


Stands for Decentralized Applications - applications that run in decentralized networks and are not controlled by any centralized entity.


Dash


Dash is an open source cryptocurrency that forked from Bitcoin and launched in 2014. It was originally known as "Darkcoin" and was designed to ensure user privacy and anonymity by permitting untraceable transactions. It is also a decentralized autonomous organization run by a subset of its users, which are called "masternodes".


Dashboard


The interface which provides users with private and advanced access and control over their Crypto APIs subscriptions.


Database


An organized collection of data, usually stored and accessed electronically from a computer system. Databases keep information on software/API details starting anywhere from user data, transactions, to addresses, access and history of actions.


DCA


Stands for Dollar Cost Averaging - investing fixed amounts of e.g. USD at regular intervals of time.


Dead Cat bounce


A brief interruption in the downtrend of an asset by a slight increase.


Decentralized


A concept of data and network distribution where these are not governed by a single (centralized) entity (server, computer, etc.), instead there are identical copies of the information on multiple servers/computers. There is no supervisory entity in this case.


Decryption


The process of turning indiscernible information into readable (human- or computer-) information.


DeFi


Stands for Decentralized Finance - a group of decentralized financial applications created on top of the blockchain networks.


Deflationary currency/coin


Refers to a currency or crypto coin which follows a “deflation model”. This means that less of it is available over time, hence it becomes more rare and its value increases. Bitcoin (BTC) is a deflationary coin. That is why if you buy it you should not spend it, as it will be worth more later.


Delisting


When an asset is removed from an exchange. This can be done either by an external request or a decision made by the exchange.


Design Flow Attack


An attack in which a user maliciously creates smart contracts, a decentralized market, etc., which usually have apparent high incentives so that users would be tricked to lock their funds there. These usually result in unfair settlements or the release of funds.


DEX


Stands for Decentralized Exchange – exchange systems where people can legitimately access trading from their wallets without having to initially store or hold their assets.


Difficulty


Refers to the difficulty level of verifying blocks in the blockchain network in Proof of Work mining.


Difficulty bomb


An expression referring to the increased difficulty in mining in Ethereum during its migration to Proof of Stake.


Digital Signature


An identifier code that derives from encrypting a public key and goes along with the verification document of the sender.


Distributed Ledger


Ledgers that hold data across the blockchain without the need to contain its dedicated currency. They are decentralized and don't have a central administrator.


Distributed Network


A network where the components of the program and data depend on multiple sources, i.e. are distributed over blocks (nodes). A decentralized network.


Diversification


Generally means the distribution of assets across different financial instruments. In cryptocurrency it's achieved when an investor holds a vast variety of coins and tokens.


DKG (Distributed Key Generation)


Represents a complex cryptographic process which distributes a single key as shares among the parties involved. It does not rely on Trusted Third Parties. Through DKG single parties are prevented from having a private key.


Do Your Own Research (DYOR)


A common expression among people knowledgeable in cryptocurrency. Reminds to always research various coins and currencies before investing. This phrase strives to counter the spreading of Internet misinformation.


Dogecoin/ Doge


It is an altcoin and the most sarcastic meme coin/cryptocurrency, which has the image of a Shiba Inu dog as its logo. It was launched in Dec. 2013. Its underlying technology is derived from Litecoin.


DoS Attack


Stands for Denial of Service attack. It is a cyber attack in which the perpetrator seeks to make a machine or network resource unavailable to its intended users by temporarily or indefinitely disrupting services of a host connected to the Internet.


Double spending


Refers to when a specific amount of coins is in reality spent more than once. This usually occurs due to a Race attack or 51% attack.


Dust/ Bitcoin dust


Bitcoin dust is the small amount of bitcoin that remains in a particular wallet or address because the monetary value is so tiny that it is below the amount of the fee required to spend the bitcoin. It makes the transaction impossible to process.

E

Eclipse Attack


A type of network attack where the malicious intenders are the majority of peers on the network and monopolize it. This action prevents certain nodes from receiving information.


Encryption


The process of turning coherent information into indiscernible information. This is done for security reasons related to unauthorized availability to the data.


Endpoint


Refers to communication touchpoints between an API and a server. An endpoint is the point of entry in a communication channel when two systems are interacting. All APIs use endpoints to operate properly.


Enterprise Ethereum Alliance (EEA)


An organization that empowers the Ethereum ecosystem and enables other organizations to adopt and use the Ethereum technology in their day-to-day business.


Epoch


A time frame in Ethereum consisting of 6.4 minutes, which has 32 slots, where each slot is 12 seconds. A single block can be created for each slot. The first slot of every epoch is a checkpoint where previous blocks can become verified and finalized.


ERC-20


The standard protocol for the issuing and implementing of tokens on the Ethereum blockchain since 2015.


ERC-721


Represents a non-fungible token standard which allows the implementation of a standard API for such tokens within smart contracts.


Ether


The official currency and transaction token of the Ethereum network.


Ethereum (ETH)


Ethereum is a decentralized, open-source blockchain and the second largest in the world after Bitcoin. Still, it is the most used blockchain in the world. Ethereum was created in 2014 by programmer Vitalik Buterin. It’s currency is the Ether. Unlike Bitcoin, ETH can store and execute smart contracts.


Ethereum Classic (ETC)


Ethereum Classic is the original Ethereum blockchain. It has higher security than ETH but doesn't perform as well. Unlike ETH, Ethereum Classic uses Proof of Work, instead of Proof of Stake as a consensus mechanism.


Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)


An Ethereum Virtual Machine executes code in random algorithmic complexity and is used for smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. Its code is isolated, as it’s not in contact with any other processes, networks, or filesystems. An EVM allows developers to create DApps (decentralized applications).


Exchange


A marketplace for cryptocurrency where users can trade digital currency for other assets, e.g. generic fiat money or other digital currencies.


External account/ Externally Owned Account (EOA)


One of the types of accounts that Ethereum uses. External accounts are controlled by public-private key pairs and the user can send ether and messages from such an account only if they own that private key associated.

F

Faucet


Also known as a Bitcoin faucet, refers to a type of crypto reward that originated as a way to spread awareness about cryptocurrencies as a whole. Represents an application or website which would reward free crypto coins to an IP address that connects to them.


Federated blockchain


Otherwise known as a Consortium blockchain, this is a partially private system consisting of a user group which has controlled access and can function across different companies.


Fiat/ Fiat currency


Represents money that is formally authorized by a government, such as official country currencies, e.g. USD, BGN, etc.


Finality


The guarantee that completed cryptocurrency transactions cannot be changed, reversed, or cancelled.


Flappening


The term used for when Litecoin surpassed Bitcoin Cash in terms of market capitalization.


Flippening


The term to use for when Ethereum would surpass Bitcoin in terms of market capitalization.


Formal verification


The process of using concrete mathematical proofs to ensure specific properties of blockchain mechanisms and cryptographic algorithms.


FUD


Stands for Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt – a marketing strategy used to spread uncertainty and fear in relation to the cryptocurrency’s whole concept, e.g. Bitcoin’s FUD on being just a bubble.


Full node


A machine that does the complete implementation of the blockchain protocols and makes sure the transactions and blocks that go through it are actually validated.

G

Gas


The mechanism which Ethereum has implemented for calculating the pricing and fees of smart contract operations and transactions.


Gas Limit


The highest price a user is willing to pay for a transaction’s/smart contract’s fee.


Genesis Block


The first block on a specific blockchain, otherwise known as Block 0 or 1.


Git


Git is a distributed version-control system for tracking changes in any set of files, originally designed for coordinating work among programmers cooperating on source code during software development.


GitHub

A web-based version-control and collaboration platform/repository for software developers to store the code they own or an open source one.


Gossip Protocol


A specific type of P2P communication between a computer (node) and other devices, which dictates how the information is distributed.


Gwei


A small portion of the Ether currency. Represents one-billionth of an Ether and is especially useful when using gas in Ethereum.

H

Halving


When a block reward of a crypto asset decreases by 50% with the purpose to reach a finite supply of this specific asset.


Hard Cap


Regarding ICO, represents the top limit on the number of tokens that can be sold during that initial stage of funding.


Hard fork


A hard fork alters the blockchain data in a public blockchain. Requires all nodes in a network to upgrade and agree to the new version.


Hash


A function that converts one value to another. It converts an input of letters and numbers into an encrypted output of a fixed length. A hash is created using an algorithm essential to blockchain management in cryptocurrency.


Hash rate


The speed at which a machine can calculate new hashes (hashes/second).


HD Wallet


An HD Wallet, or Hierarchical Deterministic wallet, is a digital wallet that automatically generates a hierarchical tree-like structure of private/public addresses (or keys), thereby addressing the problem of the user having to generate them on their own.


HFT


Stands for High Frequency Trading – type of an algorithmic trading that enables the execution of large number of orders in a very short period of time.


HODL


Stands for Hold on for Dear Life – holding on to the ownership of the asset and not selling.


Hot Wallet


Also known as “warm wallet”, a hot wallet is at all times directly connected to the Internet. For example one that is held on a centralized exchange. Hot wallets are considered to have lower security than cold storage systems or cold wallets.


HTLC


Stands for Hashed TimeLock Contract – a feature that creates smart contracts in cryptocurrency which can edit its channels by implementing time-bound transactions and eliminates risk.


HTTP


Stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. The primary protocol used to send data between a web browser and a website.


HTTP methods


HTTP methods are a set of request methods to indicate the desired action to be performed for a given resource, to: GET (get), CREATE (create), PUT (update), PATCH (partially update), or DELETE (delete).


HTTPS


Stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. It is a secure version of HTTP and is encrypted, which increases security during data transfer.

I

ICO


Stands for Initial Coin Offering – the stage at which the new digital coin assets are offered and sold to investors.


Idempotency


When a specific process/operation produces the same result over and over again when called multiple times. An independent operation suffers no additional side effects on the resource.


Identifier


Symbols used to uniquely identify a program element in the code.


IEO


Stands for Initial Exchange Offering – the stage at which a credible intermediary is put between the coin offering team and the user in order to facilitate and reduce risky purchases.


Immutability


The main principle behind Bitcoin and blockchain technology, which states inability to be changed.


Indexing


A method to track the performance of assets in a standardized way.


Inflationary currency/coin


Refers to a currency or crypto coin which follows an “inflation model”. This means that prices rise, more of this currency is periodically created (or mined for crypto coins), its buying power decreases, and hence it becomes less valuable over time. Fiat money is inflationary, that is why $20 dollars buy you less now, than 10 years ago.


Input


Any information or data sent to a computer for processing.


Integrated circuit


A chip that consists of transistor, resistors or capacitors used for different functions such as for computer memory or a microprocessor.


Interoperability


The process of validating the compatibility of blockchains which allows for further usage of their features.


IPFS


Stands for InterPlanetary File System - a protocol and P2P network, created in 2015 with the ambition to eventually replace HTTP, and is used for storing, sharing and forwarding data in a distributed file system.


IPO


Stands for Initial Public Offering – the stage at which the private companies’ shares are offered and sold to the public for the first time.


ISO


Stands for International Organization for Standardization. It is an international standard-setting body composed of representatives from various national organizations, which has its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. It was founded in 1947, and promotes worldwide industrial and commercial standards.


Issuance


The generating of new cryptocurrency tokens and coins.

J

Jager


BNB's smallest denomination.


Java


Java is a class-based, object-oriented programming language that is designed to have as few implementation dependencies as possible.


JSON


Stands for JavaScript Object Notation. JSON is a lightweight format for storing and transporting data. It is often used when data is sent from a server to a web page. JSON is designed as "self-describing" and easy to understand.

K

KYC (Know Your Customer)


A process during which a business must verify the identity and background information (address, financials, etc.) of their customers.


KYT (Know Your Transaction)


A process during which institutions, most often financial, monitor transactions through analysis of their data in order to prevent any fraudulent activity.

L

Latency


The amount of time that takes from the submission of the transaction until it is confirmed and accepted to the blockchain.


Layer 2


Refers to a second layer protocol that is built on top of a blockchain with the purpose of increasing transaction speed and scalability.


Ledger


A physical or digital file where payments and transactions are tracked and recorded.


Lightning Network


The second layer payment protocol executed on top of the blockchain-based cryptos. It allows for transactions' speed increase within nodes and aims to solve scalability problems.


Linux


An open-source Unix-based operating system based on the Linux kernel.


Litecoin


Litecoin was an early Bitcoin altcoin that started in October 2011. It is almost identical to Bitcoin but features faster transaction confirmation times and improved storage efficiency.

M

Mainnet


A blockchain protocol that offers users the possibility to send and receive digital assets. Unlike Testnet, Mainnet is fully developed and deployed for the end-user, simply - the main network.


Mainnet Swap


The migration of coins from one blockchain network to another by replacing them with a new digital asset.


Maker


A user that places an order which doesn’t get traded right away and as such, it is maintained in the order book.


Malware


A program or application that operates with the intention to produce threat to a computer system.


Man-in-the-middle attack


A malicious attack applied often on Digital Wallets, where the perpetrator inserts themselves between the user and the application, to eavesdrop or impersonate the user. During such an attack the communication and processes appear normal. When used on Digital Wallets, the goal is to redirect transactions to the Wallet of the perpetrator. 


Market Cap


Short for Market Capitalization and refers to the total value held in a particular industry, market, company, or asset. For Bitcoin or Ethereum, the total market cap is the reflection of the current existing supply times the market price.


Market Momentum


The ability of a trading market to maintain the increase or decrease of prices for a certain period of time.


Market Order


A cryptocurrency order to buy or sell on the market instantly, by picking the best bid or ask.


Masternode


Represents a full node enabling the core consensus functions when running a blockchain and requires an initial "stake" of tokens in order to operate.


Maximum Supply


Represents the maximum number of all coins and tokens that will ever be created for a specific cryptocurrency.


Mempool


The ability of a node to keep track of unconfirmed transactions that have not yet been added to a block.


Merged Mining


The process of merging two or more mining processes without putting the overall performance at risk.


Merkle Tree


A type of data structure that contains hash functions and facilitates the organization and structure when dealing with lots of data.


Metadata


Data that includes and describes other data, or data about data.


Mining


The process of validating Blockchain transactions by using computing power to solve “puzzles”. Mining receives coins as rewards for mined transactions.


Mining Farm


Represents the collection of multiple miners, e.g. a large data center that operates only to mine cryptocurrency.


Miner


A participant in the blockchain technology capable of creating new predetermined number of blocks or competes to contribute to the network.


Mnemonic


Defined as a secret group of words that represent a wallet. When used in a sequence they allow access to the cryptocurrencies stored within.


Moon


An expressed used for when a cryptocurrency is in a continuous and strong positive trend.


MPC (Multi-Party Computation)


Represents a method through which all parties involved perform complex joint computations in order to complete a task, while their data remains private and secure, and is not shared with the rest of the parties.


Multi-signature (Multi-Sig)


The addresses that enable several parties to need more than one key to authorize the transaction. These addresses have much higher resistance to theft.

N

NEO


Formerly Antshares, NEO is a decentralized blockchain platform that is open-source and creates efficient dApps through smart contracts 2.0.


NFT


Stands for Non-fungible token – a token which the user can’t substitute and is useful for unique asset representation.


Node


A unit of the blockchain that enables communication between other units for security and integrity purposes.


Non-Custodial Wallet


Defines a type of Digital Wallet which users can freely and completely manage along with their funds and key(s). Non-custodial Wallet most often don't have any backup/emergency/recovery service or support from the provider.


Nonce


A single-use random string or number generated for the purpose of verification in order to prevent replaying past transactions.

O

Off-chain


A transaction that occurs outside of a blockchain. Such transactions have zero/low cost.


Omni layer


Omni is a platform for creating and trading custom digital assets and currencies. It is built on top of Bitcoin.


Order book


An order book is used for almost every exchange for various assets such as stocks, cryptocurrencies and more. Represents a list of orders with different offers from buyers and sellers.


One Cancels the Other Order (OCO)


When two orders have been simultaneously created but only one can be executed.


Orphan block


A block with an unknown parent block created during older versions of Bitcoin Core.

P

P2PK


Stands for Pay to Public Key. A transaction type much similar to P2PKH but does not conceal the public key, it is rather displayed in the transaction details.


P2PKH


Stands for Pay to Public Key Hash. Represents the most common transaction script used when a certain amount of Bitcoin from one address to another is made. The sender must supply a valid signature and public key which is then matched to the public key hash to determine if the funds can be spent. The public key is concealed for security reasons.


P2SH


Stands for Pay To Script Hash. Represents a type of transaction whose inputs are locked with a ScriptPubKey. The Bitcoin can be spent depending on the script and its transaction hash.


P2WPKH


Stands for Pay To Witness Public Key Hash. Much like P2PKH but it locks the Bitcoin to a SegWit address. Validation is done in a part of the transaction called "witness", which must contain two items and its public key's HASH160 has to be equal to the one in the witness program.


P2WSH


Stands for Pay to Witness Script Hash. It is a type of transaction similar to P2SH but it uses SegWit. It locks bitcoin to the hash of a script. The transaction sender has to first present all required signatures and the script, called a RedeemScript, in order to spend the bitcoin.


Pagination


The process of dividing results into discrete pages.


Paper Wallet


A physical print of the digital asset’s address with the private keys in accordance.


Parameter


Any characteristic that can help in defining or classifying a particular system (e.g. an event, project, object, etc.).


Payload


The part of transmitted data that is the actual intended message.


Peer-to-Peer


A distributed application architecture that partitions tasks or workloads between equally privileged peers, that are said to form a peer-to-peer network of nodes.


PHP


A general-purpose scripting language designed for web development.


PoS


Stands for Proof of Stake – an algorithm that doesn’t need a lot of powering energy, where the more digital assets are staked, the higher is the probability that the block will be picked for deciding on the consensus.


Post-quantum


In cryptography, represents innovative cryptographic approaches that can be implemented using today’s computers but will be imperviable to attacks from future quantum ones.


PoW (Proof of Work)


Stands for Proof of Work – an algorithm where work is considered to be the activity done in mining which determines the amount of the reward the miner receives.


Private blockchain


A Private Blockchain allows only authorized entities to send or receive transactions within the network. No one can write/read or audit the records stored on the private blockchain unless someone has permission to do so.


Private key


A text string used for enabling security in a block chain by going through encryption and decryption processes. It is also used for having wallets and transactions accessible on the blockchain.


Progressive web application


A web app developed using modern technologies which meets certain web standards.


Proof of Authority


A consensus mechanism used in private blockchains to grant a single private key the authority to generate all of the blocks or validate transactions


Protocol


A standard set of rules that allow devices and software to communicate with each other.


Protocol-agnostic/Blockchain-agnostic


Defines a system as being able to easily onboard new blockchain protocols, despite the particular blockchain's specifications. Non protocol-agnostic systems on the other hand need additional setup, configuration and programming to be able to onboard and use a given new blockchain. Protocol-agnostic systems do not need to do so.


Public blockchain


Public Blockchain is an open network which allows anyone from the world to send or receive transactions.

Q

QA (environment)


An environment where a product is tested in a production simulated environment without it being publicly active just yet.


Quantum computing


Represents the development of computer technology based on the principles of quantum theory. These explain why energy and material behave the way they do on atomic and subatomic levels.

R

Race Attack


An occurrence when two transactions are created with the same amount at the same time so that both funds can be spent.


Rate Limits


A strategy for limiting network traffic. It puts a cap on how often someone can make a request to the API within a certain timeframe.


RBF


Stands for Replace by Fee - refers to a method where an unprocessed "stuck" transaction can be "fixed" by changing its fee so that it gets mined and accepted to a block.


Read-only


Data that can be accessed and viewed but not modified.


Redeem Script


Represents the script used to unlock BTC that has been sent to a P2SH or P2WSH address.


Response


The returned information on a request.


Response time


The time it takes for the response of a request to be received.


REST


Stands for Representational State Transfer. It is an architectural style for providing standards between computer systems on the web, making it easier for systems to communicate with each other.


Request


Criteria sent to the API in order for it to return information on it.


Revert Opcode


Refers to a process during an EVM's execution when a transaction fails with "revert" and reverts the blockchain to the state it was before.


Rinkeby


A main network of Ethereum used for testing. It uses Proof of Authority for which you need to prove your existence in order to retrieve ethers from a faucet.


Ripple


A digital payment network for financial transactions and the company which created the XRP blockchain. The coin for the cryptocurrency is pre-mined and also labeled XRP.


Ropsten


A main network of Ethereum used for testing. It uses Proof of Work consensus algorithm, meaning that nodes are in charge of maintaining the network.


Routing attack


The process of posing threat on an ISP level in order to maliciously affect a blockchain.

S

Satoshi


The smallest unit in Bitcoin named after Satoshi Nakamoto, the creator of Bitcoin and blockchain. It equals 0.00000001 BTC.


Satoshi Nakamoto


The pseudonym of the person/people who created Bitcoin, whose real name/names are not known.


Scalability


A change in size or scale in order to handle a network’s demands. Used to refer to a blockchain project’s ability to handle network traffic, future growth, and capacity in its intended application.


Script Witness


It contains signatures and public keys, which can together unlock bitcoins from SegWit transactions. Each SegWIt input contains its own Script Witness. Not to be confused with Witness Script.


ScriptPubKey


Represents a script which controls how bitcoins can be spent. It locks the bitcoin until it can be unlocked by providing an answer, depending on the type of the transaction.


ScriptSig


Represents a specific input script that unlocks funds from the specific crypto transaction output. A ScriptSig includes one or more signatures and additional data used for spending according to conditions that have been outlined in the output.


SDK


Stands for Software Development Kit - it provides all the necessary tools for a developer to create software on a specific platform.


Security Audit


An evaluation of how safe a specific system or blockchain is against attacks.


Security Token


A device which is used to grant access to a restricted resource and is given to investors after participating in an ICO.


Seed phrase


Represents a word collection that can be used to access a cryptocurrency wallet.


Segmented


Divided into segments.


Segregated Witness (SegWit)


A process which enables a higher number of transactions to be part of a block by separating them from coin-bitcoin transactions.


SegWit Wallets


Stands for Segregated Witness Wallets – a service that is executed on the Bitcoin blockchain and is concerned with separating particular transaction signature information. It can either be nested or native.


Selfish Mining


A strategy where blocks are withheld and released which could give the miner competitive advantage over the network.


Sharding


Dividing the network into several smaller component networks that can process transactions in parallel.


Signature


Defines a mathematical proof which shows that a private key or key shares have signed a transaction in a Digital Wallet. A single transaction can have from one to multiple signatures depending on the Wallet's parameters and authorization method. The signature prevents any further alterations on the transaction.


Simplified Payment Verification (SPV)


Represents a tool/software that can confirm that a cryptocurrency transaction has been added to the blockchain without the need to actually download the entire blockchain.


Single Signature (Single-Sig)


Defines a simple type of Digital Wallet authorization where the owner/user has one key and is the only person that can sign a transaction. These types of Wallets are very common and highly insecure. 


Smart contract


A self-executing contract with the terms of the agreement between buyer and seller being directly written into lines of code.


Social Login


A logging-in functionality which allows the user to apply their login information for various social networks and online platforms for other such. E.g. to log in to a website with Facebook.


Spoofing


Defines a type of attack in which a person or program falsifies another user's information and can successfully impersonate them in order to illegally obtain access to more of their data or account. 


Stablecoin


A digital asset that is intended to keep its stable value and not go through changes.


State Channel


An interaction channel between two participants, either users or blocks, on a network.


Solidity


A programming language used in the Ethereum blockchain for smart contract creation.


Sync


Short for synchronization. The process of equalizing the same information on two or more platforms/networks/devices.

T

Taker


Someone who places an order which gets to be instantly matched with an existing order in the order book.


Testnet


A type of software used by cryptocurrency with the sole purpose of testing changes while not affecting the overall functioning of the main blockchain.


Threshold Signatures Scheme (TSS)


Threshold Signatures Scheme (TSS) removes the burden of the single private key and splits the responsibility between multiple parties. Each of the parties has their own key share (secret) and uses it to distributively sign a transaction without revealing data to the other parties.


Ticker


The short version name of the coin on the trading platform (i.e BNB).


Token


The representation of a digital asset built on an existing blockchain. Tokens are unique, secure, and instantly transferable.


Token lockup


The time period during which tokens or coins cannot be traded or transferred.


Token sale


The issuance of tokens where after there are sold to another digital asset.


Token supply


Refers to all currently existing tokens and coins, regardless if circulating or locked.


Transaction block/ Block


A collection of transactions on a blockchain network, gathered into a set, i.e. block, that can then be first hashed and after that added to the blockchain.


Transaction Fee


How much a transaction would cost, or the charge a specific business has to pay every time it processes a customer's electronic payment.


Transaction ID (TXID)


Otherwise known as Transaction ID – the users use it to recognize and reference transactions in the network.


Transaction per second (TPS)


The quantity of transactions that the processing power of a blockchain can operate each second.


Turing complete


A system that represents the automation of solving any kind of problem given enough resources.

U

UI (User Interface)


The interface and its layout, where a user operates. The connection between the user and software.


Uncle/ Uncle block


Stale blocks that contribute to the security of the main chain.


Unit of Account


A primary measurement of money, both fiat and cryptocurrencies.


UNIX


An operating system similar to DOS and Windows, supporting multiple concurrent users.


Unix Epoch Time


Describes the time passed till a certain point in time, e.g. till today at 8 a.m. It is calculated in seconds minus leap seconds since the Unix Epoch, which was at 00:00:00 UTC on 1st January 1970. Unix Epoch Time is usually represented as `timestamp` as a simple integer.


Utility token


A token aimed at accessing a specific product and also used in the ICOs processes.


UTXO


Stands for Unspent Transaction Output – a method of spending from the leftover outputs of a previous transaction so that new outputs are created for future transactions. The excess coins are sent to a self-controlled address.

V

Verification code


The code sent from one device to another with the purpose of verifying a user's login. Used for 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication).


Vladimir Club


The concept of being a member as long as the user has 1/10,000th of all the mined Bitcoin.


Volatility


The pace with which an asset's price changes over time.


Volume


Otherwise known as trading volume, represents the total number of units that have been traded over a certain period of time.

W

Wallet/Digital Wallet/Wallet as a Service


In blockchain, a Wallet/Digital Wallet/Wallet as a Service is an API that allows users to store and manage their cryptocurrency coins. Transactions can be made to and from the Wallet. Authorization is done depending on the type of Wallet and method of signing used - e.g. Multi-Sig, MPC, etc.


Weak Subjectivity


The necessity of a particular node to rely on the other nodes when defining the current state of the system. It is a prerequisite on PoS.


Webhook


A method/tool which provides applications with on-time information as it happens, i.e. immediately.


Wei


The smallest denomination of Ether, the digital coin on the Ethereum blockchain.


Weight


A measurement used to compare the size of different Bitcoin transactions to each other in proportion to the consensus-enforced maximum block size limit.


WETH


Stands for Wrapped Ether - allows users to trade Ether to ERC-20 tokens.


Whale


Entities that own a high number of digital currencies.


White Paper


In blockchain the term white paper refers to an informational document written with the purpose to persuade people to support a service, idea or product. White papers explain the purpose and technology of blockchain.


Whitelisting


A process through which a customer can approve and create a list with permitted and trusted applications, users, devices, addresses, etc.


Witness


Represents the transaction signatures in SegWit.


Witness Script


The script that defines the requirements of the P2WSH output. Being located in the Witness field, this makes P2WSH inputs cheaper than P2SH inputs. Not to be confused with Script Witness.


Witness Field


Is comprised of all Script Witnesses.


Wrapped Ether


ERC-20 token – Shows Ether at 1:1 ratio and enables users to trade it with ETH.

X

xPub


Stands for Extended public Key – key containing information on public keys in cryptocurrencies’ transactions which permits complete read-only view to a particular wallet regarding locations, transactions and balances compatible with Legacy wallets.


XRP


The official blockchain and cryptocurrency coin created by the company Ripple. XRP is the third-largest cryptocurrency by market cap, following Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Y

yPub


A key containing information on public keys in cryptocurrencies’ transactions which permits complete read-only view to a particular wallet regarding locations, transactions and balances, compatible with Nested SegWit Wallets.

Z

Zero-Knowledge Proofs


Technology used to verify transactions happening on a blockchain without posing any threat to the privacy of the wallets or the data which is being exchanged.


Zilliqa


A public blockchain platform designed to process thousands of transactions per second. Through the use of sharding Zilliqa's transaction rate actually increases as the mining network expands.


Zk-Snarks


Stands for Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge, which is an approach to Zero-Knowledge Proofs.


zPub


The newest Public Extended Key. Just like yPub, zPub follows the BIP49 standard, but the address type is P2WPKH. It is for native compatible SegWit wallets.