Introduction: What is Bitcoin Mining Bitcoin Mining is an essential aspect of the bitcoin network, it is the process of validating transactions and adding new blocks to the blockchain.
We know how mining Gold is, mining bitcoin is like digitally mining for Gold. Now instead of digging the earth with pickaxes and shovels you use computing power to solve complex mathematical problems which are transactions waiting to be confirmed and verified.
Potentially there a lot of miners competing to solve a problem, only the first person to solve it gets rewarded unless you’re part of a mining pool (a group of people who come together to combine mining power to increase their chances of success/reward).
As with a race, only the fastest wins, so to better your chances your computing power must be fast. Once a miner solves the problem and is rewarded a new cycle starts.
Bitcoin mining is associated with proof-of-work and blockchains.
Bitcoin as the major cryptocurrency has a lot of opportunities and Value and as the leading crypto, its mining is most profitable.
For those of us in Nigeria we’re faced with some challenges when it comes to Bitcoin mining as against other developed countries but that doesn’t make it impossible.
While I was researching on mining I came across this article on a website, the writer did justice to the topic, so I decided to share it here for anyone who might want to venture into bitcoin mining in the country.
https://monierate.com/blog/how-to-mine-bitcoin-in-nigeria-as-a-beginner-cost-includedEquipments and Cost for Bitcoin Mining in Nigeria These are the tools you need to be a miner;
1. Hardware Equipments: the major mining tool is the ASIC miner, it is the heart of the operation, the price ranges from ₦250,000 to ₦12,000,000 depending on the model and hashing power
2. Cooling Equipment: You need a cooling system coz the operation generates a lot of heat and cost is depending on your setup
3. Software: This connects your hardware to the network eg Cgminer, Easyminer, BFGminer etc
4. Electricity: This is an essential requirement, our power supply is not a reliable source and so miners should look for alternatives
5. Internet Connection: A stable and fast network connection is crucial. Average cost of data might jus be ₦20,000.
6. Bitcoin Wallet: You’ll need a secure place to store your Bitcoin. Explore various wallet options (hardware, software, online) to find the best fit for you. Costs will vary depending on the chosen wallet
7. Power supply alternatives: solar panels, generators, fossil fuels.
8. Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance is necessary. Budget ₦150,000-₦450,00 monthly for potential repairs and replacements.
How to Setup your Bitcoin Mining Hardware You would need to follow the steps below:
Step 1: Choose a space that’s well-ventilated and dust-free. Remember, your miner will generate heat, so make sure there’s plenty of air circulation.
Step 2: Assemble the ASIC miner by following the manufacturer’s instructions. They often come with guides that walk you through the process step-by-step. Be patient and take your time with this step; it might include downloading and installing the mining software compatible with your hardware.
Step 3: Connect your miner to a power supply to make sure the power connection is secure, but don’t turn it on just yet.
Step 4: Now, connect your miner to your router using an Ethernet cable. This will give your miner access to the Bitcoin network.
Step 5: Turn on the Miner and power it up. You’ll probably hear a fan noise — that’s a good sign. It means your miner is working to keep itself cool.
Step 6: Join a Mining pool to increase your chances of earning bitcoins. Pools like Slush Pool, F2Pool, and AntPool allow miners to combine their computational power and share the rewards.
Step 7: Start the mining process by running the software. Monitor performance and maintain your equipment to ensure efficient operation.
Anybody with the right skill and resources can mine bitcoin.