The world of Bitcoin is built on freedom, transparency, and community control – and these principles are reflected perfectly in software projects released under the MIT License. But what makes this license so special, and why should you rely on projects that use it?
The MIT License is one of the most permissive open-source licenses available. It allows anyone to use, copy, modify, and even distribute the software commercially, all with minimal restrictions. For developers, that means maximum freedom. For users, it means transparency, auditability, and often stronger community involvement.
This is especially important when it comes to Bitcoin. Whether it’s your wallet, a full node, or a payment system – you don’t want a black box. You want open standards, readable code, and the freedom to adapt the software to your needs. That’s exactly what these MIT-licensed Bitcoin projects offer:
The Best Bitcoin Projects Under the MIT License
1. Bitcoin Core
➡️ The original. The reference client for the Bitcoin network and the most secure way to run a full node.
🔗 https://github.com/bitcoin/bitcoin
2. Electrum Wallet
➡️ One of the oldest and most trusted Bitcoin wallets. Fast thanks to SPV and supports hardware wallets.
🔗 https://github.com/spesmilo/electrum
3. BTCPay Server
➡️ A complete, self-hosted Bitcoin payment solution for merchants and online shops. The free alternative to centralized providers like Stripe or PayPal.
🔗 https://github.com/btcpayserver/btcpayserver
4. LND (Lightning Network Daemon)
➡️ One of the leading implementations of the Lightning Network. Ideal for fast and cheap Bitcoin transactions.
🔗 https://github.com/lightningnetwork/lnd
5. Libbitcoin
➡️ A modular Bitcoin development toolkit for developers looking for performance and flexibility.
🔗 https://github.com/libbitcoin/libbitcoin-system
6. Specter Desktop
➡️ A powerful desktop application for managing multisig wallets and hardware wallets. Perfect for self-custody.
🔗 https://github.com/cryptoadvance/specter-desktop
These projects aren’t just open-source – they are foundational pillars of the Bitcoin ecosystem. If you’re serious about sovereignty, security, and decentralization, MIT-licensed software isn’t just a good choice – it’s a commitment. To yourself. To your Bitcoin. To freedom.