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Crypto Terms:  Letter L
Jul 07, 2023 |
updated: Apr 02, 2024

What is Lightning Network?

Lightning Network Meaning:
Lightning Network - a second-layer payment protocol that runs on top of the blockchain.
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Let's find out Lightning Network meaning, definition in crypto, what is Lightning Network, and all other detailed facts.

The Lightning Network refers to the second-layer protocol that is created to acknowledge the issue of Bitcoin’s scalability by enabling transactions to be processed in a quicker manner across participating nodes. It works on top of the blockchain.

However, there are certain fees linked with using the Lightning Network, and others argue that this scaling method is also vulnerable to hacking. The Lightning Network must also be continually connected to the internet, which might be difficult. Therefore, it does not permit BTC to be placed in cold storage.

The Lightning Network was originally considered to be able to take off the tension of the Bitcoin network, as well as decrease transaction costs. Besides, transactions are typically done on the blockchain, but Lightning involves taking transactions off-chain.

Moreover, Bitcoin's skeptics have noted that, for the time being, the world's largest cryptocurrency is poorly equipped to perform a function similar to fiat, owing to its limited transaction capacity of roughly seven transactions per second. For instance, payment giants like Visa can manage tens of thousands.

The Lightning Network functions as a second layer for Bitcoin's blockchain, facilitating transactions by establishing payment channels. Likewise, transactions are way quicker since parties may transact with one another without the need for everything to be authorized by nodes.

The normal blockchain ledger, on the other hand, does require permission from nodes in the blockchain, each of which assesses the legitimacy of the transactions.