Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
Internet Computer (ICP) is a blockchain network designed to support fully on-chain applications and services at web speed. In this guide, we explain what Internet Computer is, why people invest in ICP and how to buy ICP in the UK using the Crypto.com App.
Internet Computer is a decentralised blockchain network developed by the DFINITY Foundation. Its goal is to extend the functionality of the public internet by allowing developers to build and run applications directly on-chain, without relying on traditional cloud providers.
Unlike many blockchains that focus primarily on transactions or smart contracts, Internet Computer is designed to host full-stack applications – including front-end, back-end logic and data – entirely on the blockchain. These applications run inside ‘canisters’, which are smart contracts with enhanced capabilities.
ICP is the native utility token of the Internet Computer network. It’s used for governance, staking and paying for computation and storage on the network.
People buy ICP for different reasons depending on how they view the project and its role in the broader blockchain ecosystem. Common factors include interest in decentralised applications (dApps), on-chain infrastructure and governance participation.
Here are a few reasons traders often consider:
Eligible users can buy ICP and 400+ other cryptocurrencies on the Crypto.com App.
Start by choosing a platform that supports ICP in the UK and provides clear information about fees, features and account requirements.
You can:
Sign up using your email address and create a strong password. Many platforms offer additional security features like two-factor authentication (2FA).
To meet regulatory requirements, identity verification is usually required. This typically involves uploading a government-issued ID and completing additional checks depending on your region.
Before buying ICP, add funds using the options available in the UK, which may include:
Please note that processing times, limits and fees vary by method.
Once your account is funded, follow the typical purchase flow:
After buying ICP, decide how you want to store it based on your preferences:
If you plan to stake ICP or interact with governance features, make sure the wallet or platform you use supports those functions.
Before buying ICP, decide how you intend to use it, as different use cases have very different liquidity and risk profiles. ICP can be held purely for price exposure or it can be committed long term through governance participation, which may limit flexibility.
If you plan to engage with governance, review the lock-up terms you’re comfortable with before staking. Governance participation can involve extended time commitments and exiting early may not be possible – depending on how tokens are configured. This makes ICP less suitable for users who expect short-term access to their funds.
It’s also worth checking ecosystem support beyond basic trading. Some wallets and platforms only support holding or transferring ICP, while governance participation and advanced features may require additional interfaces.
Finally, ICP tends to be influenced not only by broader crypto market conditions, but also by ecosystem-specific signals such as application launches, developer momentum and governance outcomes. These factors can change quickly, so staying informed can matter more for ICP than for simpler, transaction-focused assets.
Several factors can influence ICP’s price:
If you’re new to ICP or crypto generally, consider the following:
The Crypto.com App offers features like recurring buys, price alerts and portfolio tools to help users manage their holdings.
ICP’s price tends to be influenced by a combination of broader crypto market conditions and network-specific signals. Beyond overall market sentiment, traders and long-term holders often watch developer activity, application launches and changes approved through network governance, as these can affect how the ecosystem evolves.
Because Internet Computer is positioned around decentralised application hosting rather than payments alone, demand can also be shaped by whether new applications attract sustained users and whether existing projects continue to build and scale on the network. Governance decisions that affect incentives or network economics may also influence how ICP is perceived over time.
As with most cryptocurrencies, ICP can experience sharp price movements driven by liquidity conditions, risk appetite and news cycles. Rather than relying on short-term forecasts, many researchers focus on observable trends such as ecosystem growth, governance participation and real-world usage, which can provide more context as the network develops.
What does Internet Computer do?
Internet Computer is a blockchain network designed to host applications directly on-chain, allowing developers to build decentralised services without traditional cloud infrastructure.
Can I buy ICP with GBP in the UK?
Yes, you can buy ICP in the Crypto.com App using supported funding methods such as bank transfers (free*), credit or debit cards and mobile payment options, depending on availability.
How do I store ICP?
ICP can be stored in an app-based wallet for convenience or moved to a compatible self-custody or hardware wallet. If you plan to stake or vote, make sure your storage method supports those features.
Is ICP used for governance?
Yes. ICP can be staked to participate in governance through the Network Nervous System (NNS), where token holders vote on protocol decisions.
How much does ICP cost to buy?
ICP’s price changes with market activity and liquidity. Most platforms show a live price and an order preview before you confirm a purchase.
* Other transaction fees and spread may apply.
Important information: This is informational content sponsored by Crypto.com and should not be considered as investment advice. Trading cryptocurrencies carries risks, such as price volatility and market risks. Before deciding to trade cryptocurrencies, consider your risk appetite. Crypto.com services, features, and benefits referenced in this article may be subject to eligibility requirements, token holdings, and may change at the discretion of Crypto.com.
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