Which pool for mining cryptocurrency to choose? Cryptocurrency Mining Pools - The Complete Guide Server Pool What

The server pool is intended for preliminary creation of virtual servers on the processor with their subsequent issuance when ordering services. Thus, a significant reduction in order processing time is achieved. This feature is available since BILLmanager 5.85

Activating a server pool for a processing unit

With an active pool, BILLmanager 5 automatically creates servers on processing modules with the "Use pool" option enabled.
To use the pool, you need to create a special account to which servers from the pool will be bound. This is a regular client, with the exception that the servers associated with it are considered to be in the pool and are given when ordering services other users.

Pool account automatically appointed 100% discount when connected to a processing module.

For the pool to function correctly, the account must be included in a group with the rights "Allow deletion of services" and "Ignore the number of services per account"... This setting must be done by yourself.

You can enable the server pool in the settings of the processing module both when creating it and when editing it.
To enable the pool, check the "Use pool" option and in the list that appears, specify the previously created client, under which the servers will be created in the pool.

Processing module settings

List of fields:

  • Use pool- if the option is active, then virtual servers are automatically created into the pool;
  • Customer- the account from under which the servers are ordered to the pool;
  • OS templates- a list of operating system templates for which servers will be created regardless of statistics;
  • Max. pool time- the maximum time the server is in the pool, in months; when this time is reached, the servers are automatically deleted;
  • Calculate statistics for- the period in days for which the statistics of ordered servers are calculated. Based on statistics, the number of servers created in the pool is calculated;
  • Ordered for the period (0< VDS <= 3) - the number of servers created in the pool, if, according to statistics, for the specified period, clients purchased from 1 to 3 virtual servers;
  • Ordered for the period (3< VDS <= 6) - the number of servers created in the pool, if, according to statistics, for the specified period, customers purchased from 4 to 6 virtual servers;
  • Ordered for the period (6< VDS <= 10) - the number of servers created in the pool, if, according to statistics, for the specified period, clients purchased from 7 to 10 virtual servers;
  • Ordered for the period (10< VDS <= 15) - the number of servers created in the pool, if, according to statistics, for the specified period, customers purchased from 11 to 15 virtual servers;
  • Ordered for the period (VDS> 15)- the number of servers created in the pool, if, according to statistics, more than 15 virtual servers were purchased by customers for the specified period.

How a server pool works

For the pool in the crown, a task is created:

* / 3 * * * * / usr / local / mgr5 / sbin / mgrctl -m billmgr itempool.process.cron

When the itempool.process.cron function is running, the following operations are performed:

  1. statistics are calculated in accordance with the specified settings
  2. there is a creation of servers in the pool
  3. old servers are being removed

Statistics are stored in the database in a table itempoolstat... The calculation of statistics is slightly different depending on the version used VMmanager:

  • for VMmanager KVM operating system and tariff plan are taken into account
  • for VMmanager OVZ only the operating system is taken into account

When creating servers in a pool for VMmanager OVZ the tariff plan is selected automatically - the first tariff plan connected to the processor is taken in accordance with the priority (field "Sorting" in the list of tariff plans - the lower the value, the higher the priority).

When creating servers in a pool, there is a limitation of one operation on one handler at a time. The same restriction applies when deleting old unclaimed servers.

Leaving servers from the pool

When processing an order, an enumeration of servers in the pool that are suitable in terms of parameters occurs (if an attempt to issue the first server is unsuccessful, the second is selected, etc.).

For each server, the following is performed:

  • copying parameters and IP-addresses from the service in the pool to the service ordered by the client
  • deleting information about a service in a pool from the database
  • server domain name change
  • for VMmanager KVM, if the operating system is not Windows, the script is executed to change the hostname (via ssh)
  • if the customer has chosen a recipe when ordering, it is launched
  • the setparam operation is started to apply the current parameters

If no suitable server was found, or all attempts to checkout from the pool failed, the standard process of creating a virtual server is started.

If the "Use pool" option is disabled in the processor settings, virtual servers already created in the pool are not deleted, but are issued during the processing of customer orders until they run out, or until they become obsolete and are deleted by the crown.

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Alexey Russkikh

The era of solo mining is long gone. The ratio of computing power and network complexity does not allow receiving a reward for signing a block. Today, the only way to mine cryptocurrency is to unite in mining pools. Nevertheless, many miners fail when choosing a pool due to a lack of understanding of the principles of operation, specifics, differences and other features of mining pools.

In this article, we will look at everything related to mining pools: from their differences to choosing the best servers for specific cryptocurrencies.

Definition of a mining pool

A mining pool is a kind of server, the main task of which is to divide computational tasks into many subtasks. The latter are distributed among all participants who are connected to the pool. Initially, mining existed, their computing power was enough for independent mining of cryptocurrency.

As the complexity of the network grew from attracting new participants, the field of mining "coins" moved to video cards. Mining on processors is a thing of the past due to the minimal profitability (and later, the complete lack of profit).

Subsequently, the process of increasing the complexity of mining led to the fact that without combining capacities, miners could no longer extract cryptocurrency. It is important to consider that a mining pool is not a fully shared mining with an even distribution. It is rather a division of tasks, where each participant makes a profit, depending on the invested effort (capacity).

Principle of operation

The contribution is assessed by the concept of a "ball" (from the English share), which is a part of the computational hash function for signing a block. The task of the server is not only to distribute tasks, but also to check their validity. When the "ball" corresponds to the complexity values ​​required for signing the block, the operation is confirmed.

The reward received by the pool is distributed to all miners, depending on the number of valid "shares" transferred (depending on the reward method in a particular pool). Moreover, the signer of the “ball” block does not in any way affect the final distribution of the reward.

Each such server is a full-fledged business that "lives" on commissions charged from users. Mining pools can underestimate the overall computational performance in order to generate additional profit from "unaccounted power" (the so-called "hidden commission"), but such servers instantly fall into negative ratings and blacklists, losing all participants.

From a technical point of view, the structure of a mining pool cannot be called complicated. It is a dedicated server that distributes tasks. Moreover, the pool does not require complex configuration (if you have ready-made templates). However, the key aspect is the involvement of participants, which is based on:

  • Powerful advertising.
  • Mining pool reputations.
  • Security.
  • Favorable conditions for participants (low commission and other privileges).

You should also remember about the 51% rule, which is a direct threat to centralization and allows you to attack any cryptocurrency. Upon reaching this mark, the pool should potentially declare its liquidation, if the collection of high capacities does not pursue specific goals.

Types of mining and ways of reward

In the field of cryptocurrency mining, there are three mining methods:

  1. Solo.
  2. Collective (in the Pool).
  3. Cloudy.

The latter stands out from the rest, since it does not require equipment, it is often referred to the category of investments, and not "digging". Solo mining is almost entirely a thing of the past. This is due to the growing complexity of networks and the demand for digital money mining.

New "coins" are betting on solo mining, but as they develop and attract participants, "loners" will quickly be supplanted. An example is mining Pirl coin solo without a pool. Therefore, collective mining, with the unification of capacities, is the only way to compete in the field of cryptocurrency mining.

One of the key factors in choosing a server is the reward method that is used on a particular resource. It can affect the final earnings and both increase and decrease the potential income. There are over 20 ways to reward, although PPS and PPLNS are considered the most popular and widespread. The simplest PROP method is becoming less and less popular, gradually becoming a thing of the past.

PPS or Pay Per Share- for participants, this type of remuneration is considered the most promising. When a block is found, each participant receives income for each sent "ball". The amount is calculated for the user by dividing the reward by the complexity of the network. Despite the fact that this distribution principle is the most profitable for miners, it is more risky for pool owners, which usually leads to high commissions.

PPLNSPay Per Last N Shares- the method is considered one of the most profitable and does not include payments for each "ball". The accrual is carried out not for the search for a block, but for the so-called "shifts", which represent certain time intervals. The method is similar in many respects to PROP, but it differs in a “slow start” when calculating remuneration.

That is, the indicator of the calculated capacity will increase to the maximum gradually (only after reaching the peak value, the payments will be full). But even if you disconnect from the mining pool, payments will be made until the calculated power drops to zero.

In addition to the above three ways of reward, there are the following types:

SoloCPPSRBPPSW
PPS +GeometricPOT
SMPPSDGMBPM
ESMPPSFPPSEligius
PuddinpopHBPPSTriplemining
RSMPPSRBPPSScore

How do I choose a good mining pool?

Choosing a mining pool for newbies can be a daunting task, especially with a huge variety of servers. First of all, the pool should be financially profitable, this is the primary and only important criterion. The following parameters will help you choose the most profitable, safe and stable option.

Hashrate

The capacity of a particular pool directly affects its potential in finding new blocks, and therefore on the income of participants. It is for this reason that the resources created among the first are the most popular.

Any new servers, despite their peculiarities, cannot attract the same large number of participants, which means they will lose in terms of power and efficiency in the search for blocks.

Commission size

This criterion cannot be called defining, but it also contributes to the income received from mining. Before choosing a server, make at least a superficial comparison of different pools by the size of the commission. In the long term, this can affect your earnings.

Reward system

An important indicator that needs to be correlated with its own capacities in order to extract the most favorable conditions. For example, with a proportional profit sharing, in the case of low capacity, the income level will be unusually low due to the insignificant contribution.

Therefore, the choice of a reward system will be important if it meets the conditions (for ASICs, or large centers, it is different and is selected individually).

Location

An important parameter. In this regard, there is an opinion that it is best to choose servers that are located as close to the equipment as possible. This will ensure a stable connection and minimal ping.

The immediate geographic location is of secondary importance. To choose the best connection, use the "ping" command with the server address.

TOP 5 Bitcoin pools

Consider the largest Bitcoin mining pools, which provide the best conditions for cryptocurrency mining.

BTC.com

The undisputed leader, which, according to statistics, occupies a huge part of the total network hash rate (16.8% in monthly terms and 18.3% in annual monitoring). Its peculiarity lies in the low commission (1.5%) and the use of a modified and unique reward system. For this, a more advanced version of PPS is used, which implies full fee for the "balls" (FPPS). Specializes in Algorithm.

Opened in 2016, although the brand was known before, thanks to the creation of a popular wallet. The main servers are located in China and Germany, the company also plans to expand to Canada and Switzerland.

Another largest pool, which stands out thanks to the functional panel and the ability to choose the type of reward. It is part of the Bitmain concern, a company that produces ASICs. According to annual statistics, it is in second place, occupying 13.1% of the total capacity.

Low payments are considered a disadvantage, and the use of a peer-to-peer connection is also considered a conditional disadvantage.

The third largest and one of the very first pools to be created (2010). Great for beginners because of the simple interface and navigation. A huge advantage - the servers are located all over the world, which provides good ping.

According to annual statistics, it takes 10.6% of the total hash rate. Differs in high stability, reliable reputation and program for demo mining (familiarization with the process for novice miners). Conditional disadvantages include the commission, which is slightly higher than that of the closest competitors - 2%.

A popular resource that allows you to mine BTC, Litecoin and 8 other major cryptocurrencies. According to the annual hash rate, it occupies the 7th position (6.8%). The downside is the increased commissions for major cryptocurrencies - 4%. The minimum commission on the server is only for Dashcoin, ETN and LTC, it is 2%.

Large mining pool, occupies 10.2% of the total network hash rate according to annual statistics. Does not require registration and supports the two most popular reward systems: PPS and PPLNS. The pool is registered in China and has been operating since 2013, during which time it has managed to gain a reliable reputation and a huge number of participants.

TOP-3 pools for Ethereum

Consider the top of the largest and most famous pools that make it possible to efficiently mine Ether.

One of the largest pools, the second in terms of capacity among all servers (24-26% of the total annual hash rate). The number of participants exceeds 140 thousand people. It also allows you to mine "coins" without registration. The only significant drawback can be considered an additional commission of 0.001 ETH, which is charged when withdrawing less than 1 ETH.

The undisputed leader, which ranks 1st in terms of power for Ether (28.7% of power in terms of the average annual indicator). Supports the extraction of 5 "coins", among which are quite rare Beam and Grin. The reward system is PPS + (combines the advantages of PPLNS and PPS). For all "coins" the withdrawal commission is 1%.

One of the largest resources for mining ether, as well as Zcash and a few more "coins". Supports PPLNS reward system. Ranked 4th in terms of power among all servers for ETH (almost 11% of the total hash rate). It is also considered one of the best RVN mining pools, in total it supports 8 cryptocurrencies.

The pool charges a commission of 1%.

TOP-3 pools for Monero

Among the pools that are very popular in Monero mining, the following servers stand out.

mineXMR

One of the main mining pools for Monero, with a share of the total network hash rate of 17-19%. It is considered one of the very first servers for Monero, which was launched in 2014. The remuneration system is PPLNS, the commission is fixed - 1%.

supportXMR

The peculiarity of this pool is that it supports mining exclusively of Monero. It also favorably stands out with the lowest commission among all large servers - 0.6%. In terms of uptime, it also occupies a leading position, the value reaches 100%.

A popular cloud mining service that is also one of the leaders for Monero and Bytecoin. Supports up to 11 popular coins, including Etc, Bitcoin Gold and others. Withdrawal commission - 1%.

List of other popular servers

Many popular pools support several cryptocurrencies, and large multipools allow you to mine more than 10 "coins" at all. Such giants as NiceHash do work on all algorithms: from massive and SHA-256 to less popular ones like DGB on Qubit.

In addition to the number of cryptocurrencies, pools are often classified according to requirements and working conditions, where the registration process takes the main place. For some servers, it is mandatory, while others open access without registration.

  • SHA-256 (Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Paccoin, Peercoin, Pascal coin, etc.);
  • X11 (currencies Dash, Pura, etc.);
  • Ethash (currencies Ethereum, Ethereum Classic, Metaverse ETP, Ubiq (mining pool), etc.);
  • Scrypt (currencies Litecoin, Dogecoin (DOGE), BitConnect (BCC), Bitdeal, etc.);
  • Equihash (Zcash, Komodo, ZenCash (ZEN (pool mining)), etc.);
  • Cryptonight (Monero, Bytecoin (BCN), Aeon, etc.);
  • Dagger (Pirl et al.);
  • NeoScrypt (Vivo, Innova et al.);
  • Blake (2b) (Decred, Siacoin).

How mining pool works

So, as we have already found out, you, being a member of the pool, provide the server with the computing power of your equipment and in return you receive your share of the mined coins.

The contribution of each participant to the closing of the block is estimated in a ball (from the English "share" - share, part). The ball is part of the work of finding a solution to the block signing hash function, which is issued by the pool to the miner. The task of the mining pool is to collect shares from miners and check their validity. When the pool server sees that a ball satisfies the current complexity of the network algorithm, it claims to have found a block. For the closure of the block, the mining pool receives a reward, which it must subsequently distribute among the miners participating in the pool. There are several approaches to distributing remuneration:

  • PROP or proportional approach is the simplest way to distribute the reward for finding a block. In accordance with this approach, the reward is divided in proportion to the share sent by each participant in the mining pool. Payment of remuneration is carried out only upon signing the block.
  • PPLNS (Pay Per Last N Shares) - is considered the most efficient way to distribute the block signing reward. Payments are made not upon finding a block, but for "shifts" (a certain number of time intervals).
  • PPS (Pay Per Share) - is considered the most optimal option for distributing rewards for finding a block from the standpoint of a pool member. In this case, the miner participating in the pool receives a certain reward for each share sent to him. The size of this payout is calculated by dividing the reward for finding a block by the complexity of the network. For a mining pool, this option is not the most preferable, because the risks with this payment option are much higher (therefore, pools that use this approach charge a large commission).

It is also worth noting that the server owner charges a commission from the reward that the miners participating in the mining pool receive for closing a block. Typically, commission costs are between 0.1 and 5 percent. In addition, some mining pools often resort to some tricks in order to make more money. For example, sometimes some unscrupulous servers underestimate the consumed computing power of miners, which allows them to earn an additional 10% of the reward amount. Of course, not all co-mining pools use this practice; there are also honest, profitable pools that value their name. In addition, there are cryptocurrency mining pools that claim to have no fees (like the zen mining pool). Be careful, as a rule, such services charge hidden fees.

How to choose a mining pool

We figured out the essence, but then a completely natural question arises: which pool to choose? For beginners, choosing the best mining pool is not an easy task. But we will help you navigate all this variety of pools, each of which is trying to assure potential customers that their server is the most profitable pool.

In general, it should be noted that the main thing that interests us in the mining pool is the opportunity to earn money. Accordingly, the choice of a pool should be based on this very criterion. There are several parameters, the analysis of which will allow you to form a more or less accurate idea of ​​the "quality" of this or that mining pool:

  • pool power. The higher the computing power of the pool you choose, the more chances it will have to find the block first. In the context of making a profit, this is an incredibly important question, because if the server cannot effectively close the blocks, then it will not be able to offer you normal profit, which means that you will just waste your time and money in vain. New mining pools just can't boast of decent capacities, so you should refuse such options.
  • approach to the distribution of rewards among the miners participating in the mining pool. We talked about this in the previous paragraph of our article. You will need to find out which approach is used by a particular mining pool. You must choose the option that suits you, so as not to miscalculate with the profitability of your mining. For example, if the mining pool you are interested in adheres to the system of proportional division of the reward, and you cannot make a significant contribution to the development of the block, then you, accordingly, will not be able to get a normal profit.
  • method of making payments. It can be like withdrawing mined coins to a cryptocurrency wallet or withdrawing funds to a card; withdrawal currencies may also differ. There are a lot of options, you need to choose exactly the one that suits you specifically.
  • commission costs. Be sure to study this issue, because the profitability of mining will also depend on this. You don't have to chase minimal commissions; the main thing is that, subject to the payment of commission costs, you can still make a decent profit.
  • your original data. This is, of course, about your cryptocurrency mining hardware and your electricity tariff. In theory, you can mine in a pool, or, in practice, not all options will turn out to be profitable. For example, mining on a central processor is generally the lowest profitable option, and, given high electricity tariffs, it is generally unprofitable. In any case, mining on old, low-performance hardware will not bring you good profits, so you should make sure that your mining hardware produces a decent hash rate. Also pay attention to the cost of electricity in your region or country, because your mining costs and, as a result, your profit will depend on this price. Check out the electricity rates that your supplier offers, there may be discounted rates that you can take advantage of.

It will not be superfluous to also search the network for information about the mining pools that interest you. Read forums, reviews and reviews, view the rating of the best mining pools. The network also provides independent pool statistics (for example, on the blockchain.info website).

In general, there is no single answer as to which mining pool to choose. Each miner has its own best option. Accordingly, you should evaluate mining pools based on your own goals and wishes.

How to set up a mining pool

Now that you have decided on the ideal mining pool for you, you can move on to the next step - setting up your mining pool. Setting up a mining pool is quite simple and quick, even a beginner can cope with such a task without any problems.

Of course, before you start working in the mining pool, you need to create your personal account. We will consider this process using the example of bitcoin mining in the SlushPool mining pool (on other platforms, the setup procedure may be slightly different, but not critical; the essence is the same).

To do this, you will need to go to the site and find the "Register here" button in the upper right corner of the page. You will need to fill out a short registration form in which you must provide your username, email address, password, and also agree to the platform rules. You will receive an activation link by e-mail, clicking on which will complete the registration process.

Now that you have your own account, you must set up your account, edit or add new workers, add the address of the cryptocurrency wallet to which your reward will be paid, set up two-factor authentication (optional, for greater reliability and security), etc. .d.

In addition, it is worth noting that the platform has an online calculator that allows you to calculate how much profit you can get if you mine in this mining pool using your mining equipment. You just need to indicate the hash rate of your device and the calculator will calculate the approximate reward that you can receive, and you will only have to take into account your electricity costs.

Next, you will need to connect your mining equipment (in our particular case, an ASIC miner) to the mining pool. If you are using a standalone ASIC miner with the Stratum protocol, then it will not be difficult to install it, since such mining equipment, as a rule, is equipped with a user interface of one kind or another, and you only need to specify the address of the server (s) (url (s)) , username and password:

  • URL: stratum + tcp: //stratum.slushpool.com: 3333
  • userID: userName
  • Password: whatever

You will need to enter your user ID and worker name. The password can be a random word as it does not address security issues. If someone tries to connect to the server using your account, they will mine in your favor.

If you are using an ASIC miner connected to your personal computer, then you will need to download and install which you intend to mine. (NOTE: you will need a miner program in any case if you are going to mine on a central processor or video card!)

As a rule, the official website of the mining pool of your choice lists the mining software packages that this particular platform supports. There are also links that will allow you to download the miner program. For example, SlushPool offers you to download either cgminer or BFGminer, which only work with ASIC miners (in principle, mining bitcoins not on an ASIC miner makes no sense). You download the mining program and unpack it to a place convenient for you on your personal computer, and then install it (the installation guide will also be presented on the official website of the mining pool, or you can find it on the net). You will need to tell the miner the server (s) address (url (s)), username and password. To do this, you will need to create a file with the bat extension. This can be done very simply: create a new document in the text editor "Notepad", write in it approximately the following command - ./cgminer --userpass userID.workerID: Any password --url stratum + tcp: //stratum.slushpool.com: 3333- and save this file in bat format.

Further, if, of course, you have not already done so, you will need to set the address for payments. Please note that a mining pool is not a wallet, so you cannot create your address for payments on the pool website. However, there are many wallet providers (see our articles and). You can easily create yourself a wallet or use the cryptocurrency wallet of the exchange. Go to the "Payments" tab and enter your wallet address there.

This, as a rule, completes the mining setup in the pool and you can proceed directly to the mining of your chosen cryptocurrency.

Popular mining pools

Pool name Cryptocurrencies that can be mined Commission Service features
from 2 to 5 percent The presence of a convenient, Russian-language interface; availability of own software; payments are made in bitcoins to an external wallet or NiceHash wallet; high service reliability.
Minergate eth, btc, dash and other digital currencies 1.5 percent Good capacities; funds are withdrawn to a personal wallet or exchange wallet.
Zpool Supports almost all algorithms. 1.25 - 2 percent No need to register; withdrawal of funds is carried out in bitcoins; the presence of a unique script; great for beginners.
F2Pool Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Zcash (ZEC), Siacoin (SIA), Dash, Monero (XMR). 5 percent Payments are made in accordance with the PPS approach; holds just over seven percent of the network hashrate.
Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum It is stated that there are no commissions (in fact, not so) The presence of a convenient, Russian-language interface; holds just over 13 percent of the network hashrate; supports payment options PPS, PPLNS; daily payments.
BTCC pool BTC, BCH, LTC, SBTC 1 - 4 percent
BW pool BTC, LTC, ETH, ethereum classic (ETC), UB 1 to 4.5 percent Lack of a Russian-language interface; good power; daily payments; payment systems PPS, PPLNS, solo are supported.
Slushpool Bitcoin, Zcash 2 percent The presence of a convenient, Russian-language interface; availability of our own profitable payment system.
Dwarfpool Monero, Ethereum, Zcash, Expanse (EXP) 1 percent Good capacities; registration is not required; automatic payments every hour; the RBPPS payment system is supported, the availability of round-the-clock, Russian-language support.
Suprnova Bitcoin Cash (BCH), LCC, Bitcoin Gold (BTG), Garlicoin, Vertcoin, VERGE, KredsCoin, ROICoin, Criptoreal, MUNCoin, ZCoin, ZERO, BitcoinPrivate, Credits, Wavi, Dynamic, Polytimos, Electroneum, Starks, Ravencoin, Pigeon Minexcoin, ZCLASSIC, ZENCash, ZCASH, BitcoinZ, BitSend, BitCore, Einsteinium, Komodo (KMD), HUSH, DashCoin, LBRY.io Credits, Ethereum, UBIQ, Decred (DCR), Sibcoin, MonaCoin, GroibestlCredits, Digits, Digits , FlorinCoin 1 percent PPLNS payment system supported, decent hash rate, instant payouts.
MiningPoolHub Adzcoin, Auroracoin (Qubit), Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin Gold, Dash, Digibyte (DGB), Electroneum, Ethereum, Ethereum Classic, Expanse, Feathercoin, Gamecredits, Geocoin, Globalboosty, Groestlcoin, Litecoin, Maxcoin, Monacoin, Monero, Musicoin , Myriadcoin, Sexcoin, Siacoin, Startcoin, Verge, Vertcoin, Zcash, Zclassic (ZCL), Zcoin, Zencash 0.9 percent Automatic switching from one cryptocurrency to another, exchange of mined coins for any other altcoins, good capacities, the ability to select a coin for mining on the site using the "Hub" function, PPLNS payment system is supported.

Mining pools Bitcoin

List of top pools for Bitcoin mining:

  • Slush pool
  • Eligius
  • Bitminer
  • Kano CKPool
  • F2Pool
  • Bw pool
  • Bitfury
  • Minergate
  • Give me Coins
  • Mining Pool Hub
  • GHash.io

Ethereum mining pools

List of top mining pools Ethereum:

  • Suprnova
  • Coinotron
  • ETHpool
  • DwarfPool
  • 2Miners
  • Ethereumpool
  • Weipool
  • Alphapool
  • Coinmine
  • Ethermine
  • F2pool
  • Miningpoolhub
  • Minergate

Mining pools ZCash

List of top mining pools ZCash:

  • 2miners
  • Flypool
  • Suprnova
  • Coinmine
  • Dwarfpool
  • F2Pool
  • ZSolo
  • Miningpoolhub
  • Equipool

How to create your own mining pool

Pool mining is a pretty tempting and promising idea for making money. But the fact that a part (albeit small) of honestly earned money must be given to the server owner does not please many. Such miners are interested in whether it is possible to create a mining pool with their own hands. From the news, many have heard that bitcoin enthusiasts from Russia have created a mining pool, but whether it is so easy to do this and what the future holds for these Russian mining pools is unknown. Let's see if it's realistic to create your own pool at all.

Theoretically, it is quite possible to create your own pool for mining cryptocurrency, but for this you will need certain knowledge and skills, because we are talking about writing software. Of course, now on the network (for example, on the Github website) you can find the mining pool server software, but its performance and reliability are questionable.

In any case, if you absolutely do not understand this issue, but still want to organize such a business, then it is better to hire specialist developers who will make a pool for you, which means that we are talking about quite a big investment. But also take into account the fact that in order for you to make money on your mining pool, you will need good computing power, which means that your pool must be popular with miners. And gaining the trust of miners and promoting your own pool is not so easy! So, if you are not ready for this option, then you still better refuse it.

Pools VS Cloud Mining

Currently, another popular and profitable option for making money by mining digital currencies is. In essence, cloud mining is the same mining in a pool, but without using your own equipment for mining cryptocurrencies. In this case, the cloud mining service offers you to rent your computing power for a certain fee (in other words, buy a hash rate). Companies that provide cloud mining services are powerful data centers with mining farms located in countries where electricity tariffs are incredibly low or there is access to green energy (energy obtained from alternative sources). In addition to paying for capacity on some platforms, you will also need to pay a commission (in this way, some services cover their mining costs, in particular, electricity costs).

A logical question arises: is it better to mine cryptocurrencies in a mining pool or use the services of a cloud mining service? Of course, if you do not have a powerful one, then you better opt for the cloud mining option, because buying computing power will cost you several times cheaper than purchasing top-end equipment. In addition, for a beginner, this option is the most convenient, since you will not need to configure mining equipment and software, monitor the operation of this equipment, pay electricity bills, etc. Also, it is worth noting that the cloud mining option is ideal for those who live in regions or countries where electricity tariffs bite, because in their case, mining in a pool can easily turn out to be unprofitable. If you have good mining equipment, then perhaps you should still choose the mining option in the pool, because in this case it is not worth spending money on hash rent.

Accordingly, there is simply no single answer to the question of which is better: pool mining or cloud mining. The choice is entirely yours. In any case, to get a more accurate answer to the question posed, you should resort to using a mining payback calculator. On the official websites of mining pools or cloud mining services, as a rule, there are special calculators that will help you roughly calculate the profit you can get. You can also make calculations manually, for this you will need to subtract all mining costs from potential income.

Conclusion

In general, mining pools are a great option for passive earnings. Pool mining allows you to greatly increase your chances of success, which is especially important nowadays, when the competition in the mining industry is incredibly serious and the complexity of the network is constantly growing. Even solo mining on powerful hardware may not give the desired results, especially when it comes to mining top cryptocurrencies.

The main thing in this context is to choose the right mining pool, because an insufficiently powerful pool is unlikely to be the first to find a block, which means you will wait for your profit for a very long time. Accordingly, before deciding on a particular platform, you should thoroughly study all the options and only then make any decisions. This article should just guide you in this matter and help you make the right choice.