> bech32 | segwit | bc1 <
// Bech32 - Bitcoin SegWit address encoding with error detection
Bitcoin Addresses
Native format for Bitcoin SegWit addresses starting with 'bc1'.
Superior Detection
Detects and locates errors better than Base58Check format.
QR Friendly
All lowercase design optimizes QR code efficiency.
>> technical info
How Bech32 Works:
Bech32 uses a 32-character alphabet (excluding confusing characters) with BCH code error detection. It includes a human-readable part (HRP), separator '1', data, and 6-character checksum.
Structure:
bc1qw508d6qejxtdg4y5r3zarvary0c5xw7kv8f3t4 bc = HRP (Bitcoin mainnet) 1 = Separator qw508d = Data (5-bit groups) kv8f3t4 = Checksum (last 6 chars)
Why Use Bech32:
- >Bitcoin SegWit addresses
- >Lightning Network invoices
- >Cryptocurrency addresses
- >Error-resistant encoding
- >QR code optimization
>> frequently asked questions
What is Bech32?
Bech32 is a checksummed base32 format used primarily for Bitcoin SegWit addresses. It was designed to be more reliable than previous address formats with better error detection.
What's the difference between Bech32 and Bech32m?
Bech32m is an improved version that fixes a weakness in the original Bech32 checksum algorithm. It's used for Taproot addresses (bc1p) while original SegWit uses Bech32.
Why are Bech32 addresses lowercase?
Lowercase-only addresses create smaller QR codes and are easier to type. The format is case-insensitive but canonically lowercase for consistency.
What is the HRP?
HRP (Human Readable Part) identifies the type and network. Common examples: 'bc' for Bitcoin mainnet, 'tb' for testnet, 'ltc' for Litecoin.