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Understanding hash rate: contributing to blockchain security

How Much Hash Rate is Enough? | Old Laptops Take on Monero Mining Challenge

By

Nikhil Sharma

Oct 11, 2025, 08:28 PM

Edited By

John Tsoi

2 minutes needed to read

An old laptop running XMRig software to mine Monero cryptocurrency, illustrating the hash rate process in blockchain security.

A group of people is exploring the viability of using outdated laptops for Monero mining. With older models like AMD-E350 and Intel Pentium D, they aim to contribute to blockchain decentralization, ignoring profitability in favor of community support.

The Numbers Behind Contribution

A user questioned how much hash rate is necessary to make an impact in the Monero network. They proposed running a total of 600-700 H/s from their old laptops. According to fellow contributors, the current overall hashrate of the Monero network is approximately 4GH, leading to a mixed assessment of their potential impact.

Hash Rate Contribution Insights

The conversation reveals that any contribution can be valuable for decentralization. One participant noted:

"Even one person taking action can lead to change; 500H/s from 100 people totals 50KH/s, and that matters."

Some insights include:

  • Meaningful Contribution Metrics: One participant emphasized the calculation of relative hashrate:

    • Relative Hashrate = Your Hashrate / Total Hashrate.

  • Block Expectations: With ongoing discussions highlighting that a hashrate of 50KH could potentially produce one block every 70 days, expectations remain low but optimistic.

  • Community Support: Many contributors expressed excitement about any mining effort: "Most of the community is happy with any hashrate you bring to the network."

Community Sentiments on Mining

Sentiments within the forum reflect positivity toward mining contributions:

  • A consensus that decentralization is more critical than profitability.

  • Users who run old hardware find camaraderie in their efforts, making the experience enjoyable even without significant returns.

  • One user pointed out the minimum hashrate of 4 H/s can still add to the effort, suggesting there’s no such thing as insignificant mining.

Key Takeaways

  • πŸ”‘ Even small contributions help, especially if many join in.

  • πŸ’‘ The focus is on decentralization over profits, with users encouraging each other.

  • πŸ“ˆ Current network hashrate around 4GH; 600-700 H/s is just a tiny fraction.

The ongoing conversation indicates a strong belief in collective action, underscoring that every hash contributes to a healthier blockchain. As the discussion around blockchain scalability and decentralization grows, more users might reconsider older hardware as valuable assets in the crypto space.

Looking Towards Tomorrow's Hash Rate Landscape

There’s a strong chance that as more people engage with older hardware for Monero mining, we could see a surge in collective contributions. Experts estimate around 10% of these individuals might boost the overall hashrate by the end of the year, supporting broader decentralization efforts. With advancements in mining software tailored for low-spec devices, even an underperforming laptop could become a vital tool in this movement. As community support amplifies, we might witness a notable shift in perspective, prioritizing the joy of participation over immediate financial returns.

A Surprising Echo in Time

A unique parallel can be drawn to the rise of personal computing in the late 1970s, where hobbyists tinkered with basic hardware to create groundbreaking software and ideas, laying the groundwork for today’s tech giants. Much like these early programmers, the current wave of enthusiasts embracing old laptops reflects a grassroots level of innovation. Instead of focusing solely on profitability, they are fostering a cooperative spirit that speaks to the creativity and resourcefulness pivotal in shaping the technology landscape. This community-driven approach mirrors how personal computing revolutionized technology, reminding us that great movements often start with small, humble beginnings.