Mastering Bitcoin: Programming the Open Blockchain

by Andreas M. Antonopoulos and David A. Harding

Mastering Bitcoin by Andreas Antonopoulos is the definitive technical guide to Bitcoin and blockchain technology. Now in its third edition with co-author David Harding, the book covers Bitcoin's technical foundations from elliptic curve cryptography and transaction structure through the scripting language, mining mechanics, and peer-to-peer network protocol. The updated edition covers Segregated Witness (SegWit), the Lightning Network, Taproot, and Schnorr signatures. Each concept is explained with code examples, transaction diagrams, and protocol-level detail that makes it accessible to developers while maintaining the depth needed for serious implementation work. The book progresses from basic concepts to advanced topics like payment channels, timelocked transactions, and script constructions, making it useful for both newcomers to Bitcoin development and experienced blockchain engineers seeking a comprehensive reference.