Bitcoin Core

Bitcoin Core is the primary software that powers the Bitcoin network, setting the standard for how the system operates and updates. Most alternative implementations refer to Bitcoin Core for ensuring they stay in sync with the network and follow consensus rules. If you want to run a Bitcoin node, Bitcoin Core is the most widely used and trusted option. You can download the software from the official site or check out the code on GitHub.

Bitcoin Core acts both as a full Bitcoin node and a basic wallet, but many users choose other wallets while relying on Core for robust node functionality. While there are other node software options, Bitcoin Core remains the most established and thoroughly vetted by the community.

The original version of Bitcoin Core was introduced by Satoshi Nakamoto. Through community-led upgrades and stewardship, today’s releases remain backward compatible with Satoshi’s initial design.

As an open source project, anyone can review, copy, and propose changes to the code. Contributions come from a global group of volunteers, with no central organization directing or paying developers. Financial support for ongoing work primarily comes from industry donations, individual grants, and nonprofit sponsorships.