Hash Rate
The total computing power a proof-of-work network throws at mining, measured in hashes per second.
Hash rate measures how many guesses per second miners collectively make. Bitcoin's runs in the hundreds of exahashes, meaning hundreds of quintillion attempts every second. Higher hash rate means a more secure network.
It also signals miner confidence. When the price falls, weaker miners switch off and hash rate dips; when mining is profitable, it climbs. A sustained crash can make a 51% attack cheaper, so analysts watch the trend.
Related terms
The process of competing with computing power to add new blocks and mint fresh coins under proof of work.
MinerA participant who spends computing power to solve proof-of-work puzzles and earn the right to add a block.
Proof of Work (PoW)A consensus method where miners burn computing power to earn the right to add blocks and deter cheating.
51% AttackAn attack where one party controls most of a network's mining power and can rewrite recent transactions.