Savvy Crypto Hacker Runs Bitcoin Core on Nintendo Switch

Tony "The Bull" Severino

6 years ago

3 mins read

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Bitcoin is a lot of things to a lot of people. It’s a currency outside of government’s reach; it’s a hedge in a dwindling economy; it’s a store of value; it’s a vehicle for money-laundering; it’s a life-changing investment asset. And for some, it’s simply an exciting and emerging technology to tinker with. Such is the case with one crypto enthusiast, who has combined their love for two of his or her favorite technologies together, to run the Bitcoin Core client released by Satoshi Nakamoto on the Nintendo Switch.

The crypto and tech lover has shared the first ever images of the gaming console via Twitter in what is likely a nod to early Bitcoin supporter Hal Finney.

Nintendo Switch Hacked to Run Bitcoin Core Over Linux Ubuntu

Crypto enthusiast Cypherm0nk has shared an image on Twitter of the video game console, the Nintendo Switch, running the Bitcoin Core software client. The tech tinkerer can clearly be seen running v0.18.0 of the cryptographic software, over a Linux ubuntu installation.

https://twitter.com/Cypherm0nk/status/1135832612532940800

In the screenshot, all of the information relative to the Bitcoin blockchain can be seen, including the current number of blocks, and the last block time.

Keen hackers learned shortly after Nintendo launched their wildly successful Switch console that it could be hacked into a functional Linux tablet. With Linux installed, the hackers are able to run a variety of computer code compatible with the operating system.

While the term “hacker” usually carries with it a negative connotation involving criminal activity, there are many hackers that simply want to tinker with the technology they rightfully own. In the case with the Nintendo Switch running Bitcoin Core, the person behind the idea was simply demonstrating a proof of concept, as actual computers are more practical for running the client.

Linux is often the operating system used for air-gapped laptops not connected to the internet, that are used to protect crypto assets offline in cold storage. Due to the familiarity some crypto enthusiasts have with the Linux operation system, the Nintendo Switch hack to run Bitcoin Core was a likely match to be made.

Hello Bitcoin World: A Nod to Hal Finney

The screenshot is accompanied by the tweet, “running Bitcoin,” which is likely a nod to Hal Finney’s original tweet from January 2009 that was the first ever instance of someone “running Bitcoin.” Finney is said to have been on the receiving end of the first ever Bitcoin transaction, and is often speculated to be the person behind the Satoshi Nakamoto pseudonym.

Running bitcoin

— halfin (@halfin) January 11, 2009

While the impact of the two tweets is vastly different, the fact that over a decade after Finney’s original tweet, people are running Bitcoin at scale, even using machines not intended for such use, shows that Bitcoin adoption has grown, and will only continue to do so.

Featured image from Shutterstock

Tony "The Bull" Severino

Tony "The Bull" Severino, CMT, is a distinguished figure in the cryptocurrency analysis sector, renowned for his in-depth technical expertise and innovative approach to market trends. As the Head of Research at NewsBTC, Tony leads a team dedicated to providing cutting-edge insights and forecasts, helping both novice and experienced traders navigate the complexities of the crypto market.
A seasoned Chartered Market Technician, Tony's prowess in identifying and capitalizing on market patterns is unmatched. His academic and professional journey in market analysis has firmly established him as a leading authority in technical trading strategies. Tony’s approach is heavily influenced by the principles of Elliott Wave Theory, a method known for its rigorous assessment of investor psychology and price movements.

Beyond his role at NewsBTC, Tony is the visionary founder of CoinChartist.io, an educational platform aimed at demystifying the nuances of cryptocurrency trading. CoinChartist.io serves as a valuable resource for traders seeking to enhance their technical analysis skills. The platform offers a range of learning tools and resources designed to empower traders with the knowledge to make informed trading decisions.

In addition to his educational initiatives, Tony is a prolific author and a dominant voice in the crypto community. He writes the CoinChartist VIP newsletter, a weekly dispatch that has become a staple among crypto enthusiasts, revered for its insightful analysis and actionable trading advice. This newsletter has consistently ranked as a best-seller on SubStack, boasting thousands of subscribers who rely on Tony’s expertise to guide their trading strategies.

Tony is also celebrated for his literary contributions to the field. He is the author of the highest-rated Crypto Trading Journal on Amazon.com, a testament to his ability to communicate complex trading concepts in an accessible manner. This journal is widely regarded as an essential tool for traders aiming to track their progress and refine their strategies.

Before his ascent in the financial analysis world, Tony honed his skills in journalism. His background in this field has endowed him with a unique ability to present intricate market dynamics in a clear and compelling manner, making his insights highly sought after by a broad audience that ranges from casual readers to professional traders.
His professional affiliations underscore his commitment to excellence and continuous learning. As a partner of Elliott Wave International and TradingView, Tony collaborates with other leading experts to enhance his knowledge and skills. His active membership in the CMT Association further aligns him with the highest standards of industry practices and ethics.

Tony’s nickname, "The Bull," aptly reflects his aggressive and optimistic outlook on the cryptocurrency markets. His forecasts often anticipate significant upturns, earning him a reputation for bullish predictions that have frequently led to lucrative outcomes for those who follow his advice.

In summary, Tony "The Bull" Severino, CMT, is more than just a technical analyst; he is a mentor, educator, and innovator whose influence in the cryptocurrency space continues to grow. His dedication to advancing the understanding of market forces and his commitment to providing high-quality, reliable analysis make him a pivotal figure in the world of cryptocurrency trading.