Could you elaborate on the key differences between 
Bitcoin and the Lightning Network? I've heard about the Lightning Network as a scaling solution for Bitcoin, but I'm not entirely clear on how it differs from the original Bitcoin protocol. Specifically, I'm interested in understanding how transactions are processed, the speed and cost comparisons, as well as any security implications that might arise. Additionally, I'd like to know if there are any limitations or use cases where one might be preferred over the other. Could you provide a concise yet comprehensive breakdown of these differences?
            
            
            
            
            
            
           
          
            6 answers
            
            
  
    
    Giuseppe
    Thu Jul 18 2024
   
  
    On the Bitcoin Network, all transactions are publicly broadcast and recorded on the blockchain, making them transparent and traceable.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    DaeguDivaDanceQueenElegantStride
    Thu Jul 18 2024
   
  
    The Lightning Network operates predominantly outside the main blockchain, relying on it primarily for the initial establishment and subsequent closure of payment channels, as well as for dispute resolution.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    BonsaiVitality
    Thu Jul 18 2024
   
  
    This off-chain approach significantly enhances the scalability and efficiency of the network, enabling faster and cheaper transactions.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    QuasarPulse
    Thu Jul 18 2024
   
  
    In terms of privacy, the Lightning Network provides a layer of anonymity that is not present on the Bitcoin Network.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    Elena
    Wed Jul 17 2024
   
  
    However, the Lightning Network allows users to conduct transactions privately, obscuring the details from the public blockchain.