[simias]

Security is not the main reason for Bitcoin's success within the cryptocurrency scene, it's that it's the first and most recognizable name. But because its creator is AWOL it's incredibly difficult to push for any fundamental change to the protocol without creating huge divisions and probably a very controversial fork (of which there already have been a few). Unless Satoshi themselves decides to make a comeback, I don't think it'll ever happen.

People are not using Bitcoin because it's the most advanced or secure cryptocurrency, they use bitcoin because it was the first and will probably be the last to go whenever that whole flaming garbage bag of a "technology" hits the bin.

[1ark]

There are only a handful of cryptocurrencies that have the same properties as Bitcoin. While being first sure is a factor, that's at least not how Bitcoin maxis argue.

- Permissionless chain. Anyone can join by just downloading software and start mining. Tbf it has moved beyond this quite a bit with ASICs but you can still validate.

- Fair launch (just filtering all cryptocurrencies on this criteria will result in ~10 or so)

- Devs, anyone can make a PR or write BIPs.

- No foundation/community/devs that extract a fee from the operation of the chain. Communities and companies operate outside of the Bitcoin network. - Hard cap on 21m coins.

Most others compromise on some of these to use less energy, be faster, enrich themselves, or all.

[mattwilsonn888]

> Security is not the main reason

Wrong. Bitcoin has the most security because it has network effect. Most people hop onto the most secure chain, which is Bitcoin, which increases its security. That's what network effect in this context means.