Bitcoin Core is the most popular software used to run and maintain the Bitcoin network. On January 14, 2021, the latest version of the software, Bitcoin Core 0.21.0, was released. This new update brings several significant changes and improvements that aim to enhance the performance and security of the network.One of the most notable updates in Bitcoin Core 0.21.0 is the introduction of the Descriptor Wallets feature. This new feature makes it possible for users to create complex multisignature wallets, which are wallets that require multiple signatures to complete a transaction. Multisignature wallets are more secure than single-signature wallets because they require more than one person to approve a transaction before it can be completed. Descriptor Wallets also enable users to create wallets with multiple output types, such as legacy, segwit, and bech32 addresses.Another major improvement in Bitcoin Core 0.21.0 is the implementation of the Tor V3 onion services. Onion services are a way to access the Bitcoin network through the Tor network, which provides an extra layer of privacy and anonymity. With the new update, users can now use Tor V3 onion services to connect to the Bitcoin network. This feature makes it more difficult for attackers to track the location and identity of users who connect to the network through Tor.Bitcoin Core 0.21.0 also includes several updates to the way transactions are processed and validated. One of the most significant changes is the implementation of the new BIP 339 standard, which modifies the way the Bitcoin network calculates transaction fees. This update aims to reduce the transaction fees that users pay to send transactions on the network. Additionally, Bitcoin Core 0.21.0 introduces several new features to improve the way the network validates transactions, including the ability to verify signatures on Schnorr-signed transactions.The new update also includes several security improvements. One of the most significant changes is the implementation of the new OpenSSL version 1.1.1, which provides improved security and performance for SSL/TLS connections. Additionally, Bitcoin Core 0.21.0 includes several updates to the way the software handles memory, which reduces the risk of memory-related vulnerabilities.Finally, Bitcoin Core 0.21.0 includes several updates to the user interface and the command-line interface. The new update includes improvements to the graphical user interface (GUI), including a new design for the send and receive screens. The command-line interface (CLI) also includes several new commands and options, which make it easier for advanced users to interact with the Bitcoin network.In conclusion, Bitcoin Core 0.21.0 is a major update to the software that brings several significant changes and improvements to the Bitcoin network. The new Descriptor Wallets feature enables users to create more complex and secure wallets, while the implementation of Tor V3 onion services provides an extra layer of privacy and anonymity. The updates to the way transactions are processed and validated aim to reduce transaction fees and improve the performance of the network. The new security improvements make the network more secure, while the updates to the user interface and the command-line interface make it easier for users to interact with the network. Overall, Bitcoin Core 0.21.0 is an essential update that all Bitcoin users should consider installing to ensure the security and performance of the network.
