But the question remains: how did we get here?

The 1980s saw several innovators and web developers lay the foundation for digital currency. But, wait—80s, you say? Why didn’t mining take off then, and why isn’t digital currency already the norm? 

Well, the 80s were a different time. Besides hair metal and a wave of shoulder pads, the 80s were a time when mobile payments and computers were not as commonplace as they are now. Because of this, digital payments were not widely implemented.  

Things have changed now. Shoulder pads are gone (thank the heavens!), and practically everyone owns a smartphone. As such, digital payments and cryptocurrencies can thrive.

Cryptocurrency mining is now a multi-billion dollar industry. However, it takes knowledge, enthusiasm, sturdy hardware, and efficient mining software to succeed over the long run. The problem? Choosing a reliable mining software for Linux, Mac, or Windows is not easy. As with any industry, some offerings in the market are better than others.

We’re here to help. If you’re a Linux enthusiast and want to get into cryptocurrency mining, keep reading to find out the best mining software for Linux for your needs.

Why should you use a mining software

Choosing the right mining software for Linux lets you have more control over your mining operations.

Not only will you be able to manage multiple mining devices and maintain steady performance, but you’ll also be able to identify and tackle random mining errors that come with network and hardware configuration.

A good mining software also allows you to manage your mining remotely—for example, you can be on vacation and still keep your miners running. Think of it like home security systems; No matter where you are in the world, you can monitor what is happening in your home in real-time. In this case, you’re monitoring your rig, not potential robbers. You’re also making money abroad, not worrying about break-ins.

What to look for in a mining software for Linux

All mining software for Linux is not created equal, and some offer more benefits than others. That being said, you need to know what factors to look out for when making a purchase decision tailored to your needs and goals.

Here are some of the factors that’ll define how you will mine cryptocurrencies.

Operating system compatibility

Not all mining software for Linux is compatible with other operating systems (OS), and not all mining software for Windows is compatible with Linux. It’s the same as smartphone apps⁠—although some are available on iOS, they may not be compatible with Android.

Therefore, one factor that should carry the most weight in your decision is compatibility with Linux OS. You must check to see that the mining software you purchase works on Linux. Like previously stated, be careful⁠—while some software support multiple OS, others focus only on one.

Interface

Some software opts for a Command-Line Interface (CLI): efficient, yet challenging to read and tricky for beginners. In contrast, others run on a Graphic User Interface (GUI), which is much friendlier for newbies.

We highly recommend picking mining software for Linux with a GUI instead of a CLI if you are new to mining. If you enjoy coding or you’re an expert miner, a CLI could be a perfect fit for you.

Hardware compatibility

An Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) miner is a device that is designed for the sole purpose of digital currency mining. ASIC hardware has specific integrated circuits built to maintain a cryptocurrency blockchain: a public ledger with digital information.

Generally, manufacturers create mining software for Linux only for ASIC devices, as they’re indisputably the most efficient mining rigs on the market. So, in short—if you’re serious about mining, get an ASIC ASAP.

Let’s say you don’t own an ASIC device… fret not, as most mining software for Linux are also compatible with CPU or GPU miners. Fortunately, the ones that aren’t compatible with CPU and GPU devices also don’t work with ASIC devices.

Web and mobile support

A handful of mining software for Linux comes with web and mobile support. With this feature enabled, you can monitor your mining activities anytime, wherever in the world.

Some people are happy to leave their miners running while they’re on vacation… I mean, isn’t that the dream? Earning passive income while you’re sipping margaritas on a beach. Sounds about right.

So if this premium feature is essential to you, make sure your mining software for Linux supports it.

Customer support

Most mining software already comes with customer support, as it’s meant to provide users with a helping hand whenever they’re stuck on something. Therefore, we suggest selecting a mining software for Linux with proven and reliable customer support if you are new to mining.

This way, you can ask questions and resolve any issues at the click of a button instead of frantically googling ‘XYZ miner problems’ at 3 in the morning.

User-friendly operation

Some mining software for Linux are easy to operate—others, not so much. If you are a beginner, plucking out a mining software with ease of use and a friendly user interface should be top of mind.

Remember, Graphic User Interfaces (GUIs) are your best friend. They’ll show you all the data you need to see to run an efficient mining operation without ever having to know how to code.

Network Hardware ID Layer

Network Hardware ID Layer (NHIL) is the protocol which provides extra security to your wallet’s architecture and pool stratum. Stratum-mining is also known as pooled mining protocol. It is used by network based pooling servers and allows clients to generate work for miners. It would be better to buy a mining software that comes with NHIL security to keep your crypto wallet in check.

Support cryptocurrencies

The cryptocurrencies you can mine vary depending on the mining software for Linux. Think of it like this: crypto exchanges offer various cryptocurrencies to differentiate themselves from competitors. Some specialize in sh*tcoins, and others predominantly accept blue chips.

Mining software is essentially the same. Therefore, it’s imperative that you check what cryptocurrencies are supported by a software before pulling out the credit card.

List of the 5 best mining software for Linux

Here are some of the best software for cryptocurrency mining on Linux in 2023.

1. Compass Mining

Compass Mining (which used to be a separate entity for HASHR8) is known for its “all-in-one” service, customizability, and personalized touch.

It’s perfect for those who are starting fresh, and don’t have hardware or mining software for Linux at home. Simply sign up, choose your mining hardware of preference, and once it’s sent over to you, connect your machine to the F2Pool mining pool. 

That’s just the basic setup—Compass Mining’s customizability is unparalleled.

Take its overclocking capabilities—you can overclock your system to push your mining hardware to its limits, thus squeezing out the most value from your rig. If you’re wondering how it works, overclocking increases your GPU’s default core clicks and memory to run at higher speeds than was originally specified by the manufacturer. 

It’s similar to installing a turbo into your old Honda Civic—it’ll drive faster, though you’ll be forcing the engine to do things it hasn’t done before. 

Compass Mining also lets you track the performance of your rig and automatically restarts it when there’s an error. You can also use a variety of wallets simultaneously, giving your more control over the cryptocurrencies you want to mine.

Compass Mining also comes with a mobile application that helps you monitor your mining activities when you’re out and about. The app notifies you when something isn’t running right, a part is malfunctioning, or there’s a low hash rate.

The team at Compass Mining believes in a simple “plug and play” policy, making this mining software for Linux ideal for beginners. Just take a look at the addition of the Compass Mining marketplace—miners can now secure competitive hosting agreements with the low-cost mining facilities, automating the process and eliminating broker fees.

Now that we’re on the subject of fees: Compass’ mining fees are divided into four categories: fixed costs, recurring costs, maintenance, and mining pool fees. If you want to learn more about each fee, click the link above.

2. Hive OS

Hive OS is another popular mining software for Linux because of its lucrative user interface, reporting system, and user control over GPU and ASIC devices.

It supports all popular coins, including Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Ethereum. In addition, Hive OS allows you to switch wallets, pools, and coins for hassle-free mining. With configurable options packaged inside the software, you can manage each rig, whether it’s one or several thousand (not saying you would have thousands of rigs), in a couple of clicks.

The beauty behind Hive OS is the hundreds of features it comes with, besides the status quo. Plan on buying a hundred miners and setting up a mining farm? Not to worry—rigs can be split and categorized by whatever you choose. Is it getting hot outside and you don’t have Air Conditioning? Check the heat maps to see if your workers are about to overheat.

Overall, Hive OS offers a substantial advantage over its competitors when it comes to speed of setup, efficiency, ease of use, and, most importantly, features. 

Ready to pull the trigger on Hive OS? First, take a look at the three pricing packages before deciding: Start, Personal, and Business. 

The Start package is limited to four workers only and has three days of stats. The Community package comes with 30 days of stats, multiple farm management, and more features. Finally, the Business package sits at the top for a good reason: you get paid support service, individual features, private proxy channels and more.

3. EasyMiner

Are you looking for something a bit cheaper than Hive OS? Or maybe you’re not starting entirely from fresh and don’t need the all-in-one services offered by Compass Mining. 

Well, good news for you! EasyMiner is a more-than-capable mining software for Linux with a clean, GUI-based interface, GPU and CPU support, and integration of several cryptocurrency wallets.

First off, one of EasyMiner’s shining features is its free and open-source code. You don’t have a single penny to start using EasyMiner—just click this link, download the software, and go about your day. Oh, and if you’re a die-hard miner, the open-source code also allows you to edit and customize the mining software to suit your needs.

EasyMiner can be used for both solo and pooled mining with support for network and Stratum mining protocols. EasyMiner supports all major operating systems and has a straightforward dashboard crafted for beginners. You can change network settings, mining pools, and cryptocurrency wallets with a single click.

It is well suited for both GPU and CPU mining, albeit ASIC miners have crept their way in as well. It’s also compatible with NHIL, thus providing extra security for wallet architecture and pool stratum.

This mining software for Linux also has a powerful log viewer, bringing maximum transparency to your mining experience. For example, it displays the hash rate, invalid or accepted shares in the past hour, your earnings, etc.

When you first sign up to EasyMiner, you get a one-time Litecoin bonus. Neat!

4. Awesome Miner

Awesome Miner is renowned for its native overclocking and integration of various mining hardware. In addition, it clocks in over 11 mining engines and is compatible with 26 of the most popular algorithms out there, including Ethereum.

First things first, Awesome Miner is perfect for large-scale operations. Users can overclock hundreds of GPUs at once while managing voltage, clock speed, power, and fan speed in the dashboard.

The mining software for Linux is perfect for those who want to streamline their mining operations; If you’re using an NVIDIA or AMD GPU, there is no need to install any other third-party applications.

Want to optimize your mining experience? Awesome Miner’s profit switching feature is perfect for you, as it changes mining pools based on the profitability of multi-coin and stranded mining pools. You can also use this feature on other popular mining pools.

The desktop app also has a dynamic web interface, keeping you updated on your mining activities. Its smartphone app displays your hardware status and temperature, which lets you easily monitor its health and progress on the go. You can also visit mining history, export CSV data to spreadsheets, and generate charts if you’re a stats geek.

The Awesome Miner team stands firmly behind a one-click policy, helping you access and connect to the setup pool without having to read confusing instructions—perfect for beginners!

5. CGMiner

Launched in 2011 when crypto was just starting to become a new fad, CGMiner is still the number one choice for crypto miners.

CGMiner is written in C, and it’s perfect for CLI advocates who need flexibility with their mining operations. The software supports OS X, Linux, and Windows, and it’s compatible with both ASIC and FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) devices. Furthermore, CGMiner is furnished with fan speed control, complete monitoring, and remote interface capabilities.

Initially, CGMiner was catered to advanced hardware devices. However, over time, the software became more flexible to broaden its user base. Just take a look at CGMiner’s current iteration: it can function under any GPU attached to your rig, though it’s only supported under older software versions.

CGMiner runs on an intelligent failover mechanism that prevents stale work submission. It also comes with a scalable networking scheduler that can update to a hash rate irrespective of size with no network delays.

When onboarding, CGMiner will ask you to enter your mining pool’s username, URL, and password. After this, it will automatically detect your cryptocurrency mining hardware connected to your computer. Pretty easy, right?

CGMiner has an automated menu for on-the-fly-management of small blocks. Other features include API monitoring and overclocking.

The software isn’t only flexible—it’s also incredibly customizable.

CGMiner lets you control numerous FPGA or ASIC mining hardware devices settings (like the voltage) that can help you reach a perfect mining experience. Also, commands are specific to your OS, which provides a helping hand when trying to reach peak efficiency for your operations.

However, it’s common to hear negative feedback from customers when running the software on Linux, as various antiviruses block the software. If this isn’t a problem for you, then trust CGMiner and disable your antivirus.

From Cointerra and Minion to BlackArrow and Hexfury, this mining software for Linux supports a wide range of popular crypto mining hardware.

Final thoughts

The mining software that you purchase will determine how effectively you can mine cryptocurrency. Your mining needs might be specific, so it would be best that you look at factors such as the operating system compatibility, coin resource, and pricing before you choose any software. 

You might also want to look at mobile and web support, hardware compatibility, interface, and customer support options before making a choice. You should not hesitate to invest more in software as it is one factor that influences profitability in mining.

Thanks for reading. Did we miss any other amazing mining software for Linux? Use the comment box below to share your thoughts.