Bitcoin v0.1 released by Nakamoto 17 years ago, the first step into the blockchain era

NFTragedy · 2026-01-28T22:06:22+00:00

January 17, 2026 marks an important date in cryptocurrency history, celebrating 17 years since Satoshi Nakamoto released Bitcoin client v0.1. This foundational release enabled decentralized networking, integrating IRC for efficient communication, and ultimately paving the way for modern blockchain technology.

NFTragedy

2026-01-28 22:06:22

Abstract generation in progress

January 17, 2026, is a day of special significance in the history of cryptocurrency. Seventeen years ago, on January 17, 2009, Satoshi Nakamoto introduced the Bitcoin client v0.1 alpha version to the world. According to PANews reports, the release of this version laid the foundation for a truly decentralized network by enabling anyone to run an independent node on their computer.

Early Technologies That Enabled Decentralization

The source code of Bitcoin 0.1.0 included an integrated Internet relay chat (IRC) client to streamline network communication. This made information exchange between nodes easier and created an environment where individual users could easily participate in the network. This structure, which was innovative at the time, was a key element that allowed Bitcoin to operate as a decentralized system.

The Rise and Fall of Early Experimental Features

Interestingly, Nakamoto also included a framework for creating virtual poker games in the early version of Bitcoin. This feature was initially added in the version released on April 16, 2008, but was completely removed in the v0.8.2 update. These changes reflect a shift in development philosophy, focusing on core functionalities as Bitcoin evolved into a specific blockchain technology.

Nakamoto’s release of v0.1 was more than just a software launch; it was a historic moment that marked the beginning of a new era of decentralized finance.

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