What Is Zcash?

About Zcash (ZEC)

Zcash is a privacy-focused blockchain and cryptocurrency. It appeared in response to Bitcoin’s flaws. It used the same algorithm as Bitcoin, but it improved in many ways. Zcash has its own cryptocurrency called ZEC. It has been available for trade since October 2016.

Where did Zcash (ZEC) come from?

Zcash started in 2013 with Zerocoin. It was developed by Matthew Green, currently a professor at John Hopkins University. Zerocoin used a special mathematical technique to conduct blockchain transactions. It is called zero-knowledge proofs. The most important was this proved that the content of transaction was anonymous even though transaction was publicly visible on a decentralized ledger. Although this technique was new, useful and interesting, it had some drawbacks. Zcash claims to improve all these points.

What are the advantages of Zcash (ZEC)?

1. It supports semi-transparent transactions
   
   These transactions make it possible to reveal data selectivity. Nevertheless, they don't reveal critical details. Also they can be used in financial marketplace.
2. Protects consumer data
   
   Financial transactions in public blockchain are transparent. That makes them less susceptible to manipulation.
3. It has practical utility for businesses that are interested in a system that combines privacy with blockchain technology
4. Easily accessible mining
   
   ZEC can be mined with free GPU hardware.
5. It has a good reputation
   
   So far no serious bugs were found. Although Zcash seems to be almost flawless, there are some drawbacks. Let's take a look at them.

What are the disadvantages of Zcash (ZEC)?

1. Limited privacy storage options
   
   There are limited wallet options for storing and sending ZEC from private addresses.
2. Questionable decentralization
   
   10% of the supply is held by team members. So there is a question if it is really as decentralized as they say.
3. Transparent transactions can be tracked

How to buy Zcash (ZEC) on SimpleSwap?

Let’s say you want to buy Zcash. What should you do? We suggest you go to the SimpleSwap homepage and follow the instructions below:

1. For example, you want to swap BTC for ZEC. Select the currency you want to exchange (e.g. BTC) in the first drop-downlist. Then enter the amount you want to swap.
2. Select ZEC in the second drop-down list. You’ll see the estimated amount that you’ll get after the exchange.
3. Click the Exchange button.
4. Enter the Recipient's Address. ZEC will be sent. Be careful and make sure you use the correct address.
5. Create the exchange.
6. You will see the Bitcoin deposit address. You need to transfer the necessary amount of BTC to this address to start the BTC to ZEC exchange.

SimpleSwap reminds you that this article is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide investment advice. All purchases and cryptocurrency investments are your own responsibility.