The Bitcoin Blockchain Before a Fork
Before a fork occurs, every Bitcoin node follows the same consensus rules and shares the same blockchain history.
Every wallet, miner, and node agrees on the same chain of blocks, transactions, and balances.
At this stage there is only one Bitcoin network.
Step 1 - A New Set of Rules Is Created
A blockchain fork begins when developers introduce a new set of consensus rules.
These rules may modify transaction validation, block parameters, network features, or introduce entirely new functionality.
The new rules define how the future blockchain will operate.
Step 2 - A Bitcoin Snapshot Is Taken
Most independent Bitcoin fork projects determine eligibility by taking a snapshot of the Bitcoin blockchain at a specific block height.
The snapshot records every eligible Bitcoin address and its balance at that exact moment.
This information is later used to calculate the allocation of coins on the new blockchain.
Step 3 - The New Blockchain Launches
After the snapshot has been completed, developers launch the new blockchain using its own software and consensus rules.
Although the initial balances may be based on Bitcoin ownership at the snapshot block, the new blockchain becomes an independent network with its own blocks, transactions, validators, and ecosystem.
Step 4 - Eligible Holders Can Claim New Coins
Once the network is live, eligible Bitcoin holders can usually claim their allocation.
The exact access procedure depends on the project. For ECX, access and splitting do not create the snapshot balance; Alpha and Beta are practice states, while Mainnet establishes permanent ECX.
What Happens to My Bitcoin?
A Bitcoin fork does not replace the Bitcoin blockchain.
Your Bitcoin remains on the original Bitcoin network and continues to function normally.
The new blockchain operates independently and creates its own native cryptocurrency.
Receiving coins from a fork does not create additional Bitcoin.
Do You Automatically Receive New Coins?
Not always.
Some projects distribute new coins automatically through participating custodial services, while others require users to complete an official claim process.
Eligibility rules and distribution methods vary between projects.
Example: How the ECX Fork Works
Bitcoin Snapshot
The Bitcoin blockchain reaches the official ECX snapshot block.
Eligible Addresses
Bitcoin addresses and balances are recorded for allocation purposes.
ECX Network Launch
The ECX blockchain launches independently from Bitcoin.
Claim Process
Eligible users verify ownership and claim their ECX.
Access ECX
ECX is delivered to the receiving address specified during the claim process.
ECX Claim Flow
Bitcoin
Snapshot
Eligibility
Claim Checker
Claim Tool
Access ECX
Supported Wallets
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Bitcoin fork create new Bitcoin?
No. A fork creates a separate blockchain with its own native cryptocurrency. Your Bitcoin remains on the Bitcoin network.
What is copied during a Bitcoin fork?
Most Bitcoin forks use a snapshot of Bitcoin ownership at a specific block height to determine eligibility for the new blockchain's initial distribution.
Why is a snapshot necessary?
The snapshot provides a transparent and verifiable method for determining which Bitcoin addresses qualify to receive coins on the new blockchain.
Can I move my Bitcoin after the snapshot?
Eligibility is determined by the state of the Bitcoin blockchain at the snapshot block. Always refer to the project's official guidance regarding transfers before or after the snapshot.
Is claiming required?
Many blockchain forks require users to complete a claim process before receiving their allocation.
How can I check if I qualify for ECX?
After the official snapshot has been processed, you can enter your public Bitcoin address into the ECX Claim Checker to verify your eligibility.
Ready to Check Your ECX Eligibility?
After the official ECX snapshot, use the ECX Claim Checker to see whether your Bitcoin address qualifies for an ECX allocation.