How to Use Hedera (HBAR): Complete Beginner’s Guide [2025 Update]

AI summary

Hedera (HBAR) is an advanced distributed ledger that leverages Hashgraph technology to deliver fast, secure, and environmentally friendly transactions, distinguishing itself from traditional blockchains with high scalability and low fees. Backed by a governing council of major global enterprises, Hedera is increasingly adopted for enterprise and Web3 applications, with HBAR serving as the network’s utility token. For secure storage, the article recommends using Tangem Wallet, highlighting its ease of use and robust security features.

In 2025, as blockchain technology evolves beyond its early limitations, Hedera (HBAR) emerges as a fast, secure, and environmentally friendly alternative. While most blockchains struggle with scalability or high energy consumption, Hedera’s unique architecture, based on Hashgraph technology, delivers lightning-fast transactions and near-zero fees, all while maintaining enterprise-grade security. Enterprises like Google, IBM, LG, and Boeing are already part of Hedera’s governance ecosystem, signaling growing institutional confidence in the network. Whether you’re a curious newcomer, an investor exploring sustainable blockchain projects, or a Tangem user wanting to store HBAR securely, this guide covers everything you need to know.

What Is Hedera (HBAR)?

Hedera, launched in 2018 by Dr. Leemon Baird and Mance Harmon, is a public distributed ledger that uses a novel consensus mechanism called Hashgraph. Unlike traditional blockchains such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, which store data in sequential blocks, Hedera’s Hashgraph records transactions using a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG). This structure allows multiple events to be confirmed simultaneously, resulting in extraordinary speed and fairness.

At its core, Hedera isn’t just another blockchain. It’s a public ledger governed by a council of global enterprises, known as the Hedera Governing Council. Members like Google, IBM, LG, and Standard Bank oversee the network’s stability and transparency, rotating governance roles to prevent centralization.

Unlike Ripple’s single-company governance or Stellar’s foundation model, Hedera emphasizes fairness through decentralization by design. Every council member has equal voting power, ensuring no single entity can dominate decision-making.

How Does Hedera Work?

To understand how Hedera differs from traditional blockchains, you must grasp two core ideas: Hashgraph and gossip protocol.

Hashgraph vs. Blockchain

Traditional blockchains link blocks of transactions in a single chain, making scalability difficult. In contrast, Hedera’s Hashgraph utilizes a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) structure, enabling the network to process multiple transactions in parallel. This allows thousands of users to submit transactions simultaneously without congestion.

The Gossip Protocol

Hedera’s nodes communicate using a mechanism called gossip about gossip. Nodes randomly share information about transactions (and who they’ve heard from), quickly spreading consensus data across the network. This approach is lightweight, fast, and secure.

Virtual Voting and Finality

Instead of mining or staking to determine validity, Hedera uses virtual voting, where nodes calculate consensus based on known transaction histories. The result? Transactions achieve finality in under five seconds, with a throughput exceeding 10,000 transactions per second (TPS), significantly surpassing most blockchains.

Key Features and Advantages of Hedera

Hedera’s architecture gives it several standout advantages that appeal to developers and enterprises.

• Speed and Scalability

Hedera supports 10,000+ TPS, making it one of the fastest public ledgers available today. Its efficiency allows for microtransactions and real-time applications without network slowdowns.

• Low Fees

Transaction costs average around $0.0001 per transaction, making everything from NFTs to supply chain data validation cost-effective.

• Energy Efficiency

Hedera consumes a fraction of the energy required by proof-of-work networks. It is also carbon-negative, making it a favorite among ESG-conscious investors and enterprises.

• Enterprise-Grade Governance

The Hedera Governing Council comprises over 30 global organizations from diverse industries, including technology, finance, retail, and manufacturing. This structure ensures network reliability, compliance, and long-term vision.

• Smart Contracts and Tokenization

Hedera supports Solidity-based smart contracts, enabling developers to build DeFi platforms, NFTs, and real-world asset tokenization solutions. The network’s performance has attracted developers building enterprise-scale Web3 products in 2025.

How to Buy Hedera (HBAR)

Buying HBAR is simple, but security starts with where you store it. Here’s a straightforward walkthrough.

1. Choose a Trusted Exchange

HBAR is available on major cryptocurrency exchanges, including Binance, OKX, Kraken, and Coinbase. Select an exchange based on your region, fees, and the payment methods it supports.

2. Create and Verify Your Account

Complete your KYC verification to comply with regulations and enable full account functionality. Use strong 2FA for added protection.

3. Buy HBAR

Once verified, you can buy HBAR directly with fiat (USD, EUR, GBP) or swap another cryptocurrency for HBAR.

4. Transfer HBAR to Tangem Wallet

Never keep large amounts of HBAR on an exchange. After purchase, transfer your tokens to Tangem Wallet. Download the Tangem App and tap your card to set up secure cold storage for your HBAR today.

How to Store Hedera (HBAR) Securely with Tangem Wallet

If you’re serious about protecting your HBAR, Tangem Wallet offers simplicity and security unmatched by software or seed-based wallets.

Setting Up Tangem Wallet for Hedera

1. Get your Tangem Wallet, available via the official Tangem website or verified retailers.
2. Download the Tangem App (iOS or Android).
3. Tap your card to your phone to activate it. The wallet automatically generates a secure private key inside the card’s chip.
4. Add Hedera (HBAR) to the list of supported assets.
5. Back up your card by creating a second or third backup card during setup — no seed phrase required.

Sending and Receiving HBAR

• To send HBAR, open the Tangem App, tap your wallet card, enter the recipient’s address, and confirm the transaction.
• To receive HBAR, share your Hedera address or QR code with the sender.

The network confirms transactions within seconds, and you retain complete control over your funds.

Why Tangem Is the Safest Option

Tangem Wallet offers a hardware cold storage solution that keeps your private keys isolated from online threats. Each wallet card uses EAL6+ certified security chips. There’s no seed phrase to lose or hack, and your wallet works instantly with NFC tap technology. It’s ideal for new users and serious investors looking to manage HBAR in the long term.

Using Hedera (HBAR) for Payments and Applications

Hedera isn’t just fast, it’s practical. In 2025, its use cases continue to expand across industries:

• Payments: Instant, low-cost global transfers for businesses and consumers.
• Supply Chain Tracking: Immutable verification of goods, documents, and logistics.
• Stablecoins and Tokenization: Companies issue stablecoins and tokenize assets, including real estate and commodities.
• Enterprise Integrations: Partnerships with Google Cloud, IBM, and LG show how global organizations leverage Hedera for transparency and speed.

HBAR serves as the fuel of the Hedera network. It pays transaction fees, stakes nodes, and powers smart contract operations. As adoption grows, HBAR’s utility continues to strengthen its value proposition.

Hedera vs Ripple vs Stellar

While Ripple focuses on cross-border banking and Stellar targets microtransactions, Hedera combines enterprise trust with Web3 innovation, making it a versatile choice for developers and institutions.

How to Stake HBAR

Staking enables you to earn rewards by contributing to the network's security and stability. On Hedera, staking works by delegating your tokens to consensus nodes that validate transactions.

1. Choose a Node or Service Provider: Select from official staking partners once available in your region.
2. Delegate Your HBAR: You don’t lose ownership — your tokens remain in your wallet.
3. Earn Rewards: Rewards typically range from 3% to 6% APR, depending on the node, although this rate is subject to change.
4. Redeem Anytime: Staked HBARs remain liquid and can be unstaked at any time.

Note: Staking via Tangem is not yet supported (as of 2025), but integration may come in future updates. Always check Tangem’s roadmap for the latest support announcements.

FAQs about Hedera (HBAR)

What is Hedera Hashgraph?

Hedera Hashgraph is a distributed ledger that utilizes DAG-based Hashgraph technology, rather than a traditional blockchain, enabling faster and more secure consensus.

Is Hedera the same as blockchain?

No. Hedera utilizes a distinct Hashgraph architecture, which enables faster transactions and higher scalability compared to linear blockchains.

How fast are HBAR transactions?

Transactions on Hedera settle in under five seconds, with throughput over 10,000 TPS.

Is HBAR a good investment in 2025?

Many view HBAR as a promising project due to its real-world partnerships, sustainability, and growing ecosystem. As always, conduct thorough research and invest responsibly.

How to Buy and Store HBAR Securely?

Buy HBAR on trusted exchanges like Binance or Coinbase, then store it safely in a Tangem Wallet to protect your assets offline.

Can Tangem Wallet store HBAR?

Yes. Tangem Wallet fully supports Hedera (HBAR) — you can buy, send, and hold HBAR securely within the Tangem App.

What makes Hedera eco-friendly?

Hedera is carbon-negative, requiring minimal energy per transaction compared to proof-of-work blockchains like Bitcoin. Its governance also promotes sustainability through verified offsets.

Conclusion

Hedera (HBAR) represents a new generation of distributed ledgers that’s fast, fair, and enterprise-ready. Its combination of Hashgraph technology, low fees, and eco-friendly design positions it as a leading choice for developers, businesses, and investors in 2025. When storing and managing your HBAR, Tangem Wallet delivers unmatched simplicity and security. Get your Tangem Wallet today and manage your Hedera assets with confidence.