<p>Monero is a secure, private, and untraceable cryptocurrency. The developers and community are committed to protecting these values. Learn more by reading the <ahref="{{site.baseurl}}/get-started/what-is-monero/">What is Monero</a> page. The <ahref="https://github.com/monero-project">source code</a> is also available for review and discussion.</p>
<p>There is a large and supportive community that will assist if you experience any difficulty. See the <ahref="{{site.baseurl}}/community/hangouts/">Hangouts</a> page for more information.</p>
<p>A Monero wallet is required to secure your own funds. See the <ahref="{{site.baseurl}}/downloads/">Downloads</a> page for a listing of available wallets.</p>
<p>The easiest way to run a Monero node, without affecting your home bandwidth, is to purchase a VPS (Virtual Private Server). We strongly recommend <ahref="https://interserver.net/dock/vps-231552.html">InterServer.net</a> using the 'MONERO' coupon code to get a discount over and above their already cheap $6/month VPS. Using this coupon code and/or <ahref="https://interserver.net/dock/vps-231552.html">our affiliate link</a> will also assist in the ongoing funding of Monero development.</p>
<p>Monero may be purchased on an <ahref="{{site.baseurl}}/community/merchants#exchanges">exchange</a> with fiat or other cryptocurrencies. An alternate way of acquiring Monero is via <ahref="{{site.baseurl}}/get-started/mining/">mining</a>, the computationally-complex process whereby transactions are immutably recorded on the blockchain.</p>
<p>Monero may be used to purchase many goods and services. For a listing, see the <ahref="{{site.baseurl}}/community/merchants/">Merchants</a> page. </p>