How to buy Internet Computer (ICP) in the US

What is Internet Computer?

Internet Computer is a decentralized 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.

Why do people buy and invest in Internet Computer (ICP)?

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 decentralized applications (dApps), on-chain infrastructure and governance participation.

Here are a few reasons traders often consider:

• On-chain application hosting: Internet Computer is designed to run applications directly on-chain, which can reduce reliance on centralized cloud services.
• Developer-focused infrastructure: The network supports smart contracts that can serve web content, handle user interactions and store data.
• Governance participation: ICP holders can stake tokens to take part in network governance through the Network Nervous System (NNS).
• Market exposure: Some buyers view ICP as exposure to a blockchain focused on decentralized internet infrastructure rather than just payments.

Eligible users can buy ICP and 400+ other cryptocurrencies on the Crypto.com App. 

How to buy Internet Computer (ICP) in 5 steps

1. Choose a cryptocurrency platform

Start by choosing a platform that supports ICP in the US and provides clear information about fees, features and account requirements.

You can:

• Buy ICP on the Crypto.com App – A mobile experience that supports buying, selling and holding supported crypto assets.
• Trade ICP on the Crypto.com Exchange – Where available, for users who prefer more advanced trading tools.

2. Create and verify your account

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.

3. Deposit funds

Before buying ICP, add funds using the options available in the US, which may include:

• Bank transfer (ACH) – Free* in some cases and suitable for larger deposits.
• Credit or debit card – Fast and convenient, though fees may apply.
• Crypto transfer – Deposit another cryptocurrency and swap it for ICP.
• Apple Pay or Google Pay – Available in some app flows depending on eligibility.

Please note that processing times, limits and fees vary by method.

4. Buy Internet Computer (ICP)

Once your account is funded, follow the typical purchase flow:

1. Search for ‘Internet Computer (ICP)’.
2. Enter the amount you want to buy.
3. Review price details, fees and the estimated amount of ICP you’ll receive.
4. Confirm the purchase.

5. Store and manage your ICP

After buying ICP, decide how you want to store it based on your preferences:

• Hot wallets – Software wallets, including the Crypto.com App, for convenient access.
• Cold wallets – Hardware wallets or offline storage for enhanced control and security.

If you plan to stake ICP or interact with governance features, make sure the wallet or platform you use supports those functions.

Strengths and weaknesses of Internet Computer (ICP)

Strengths 

• On-chain application hosting: Internet Computer is designed to run full applications directly on the blockchain.
• Reduced reliance on cloud providers: Apps can operate without traditional centralized infrastructure.
• Governance system: ICP holders can stake and participate in protocol-level decisions via the NNS.
• Scalability focus: The network is built to support high throughput and web-speed interactions.

Weaknesses 

• Complex architecture: The canister-based model and governance system can be difficult for beginners to understand.
• Developer adoption risk: Network value depends on sustained developer and application growth.
• Market volatility: ICP’s price can fluctuate significantly with broader crypto market conditions.
• Ecosystem concentration: Development and upgrades are closely associated with the DFINITY Foundation.

What to know before buying Internet Computer (ICP)

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.

What affects the price of Internet Computer (ICP)?

Several factors can influence ICP’s price:

• Network adoption: Growth in applications, users and developers on Internet Computer.
• Governance activity: Changes approved through the NNS can affect supply dynamics and incentives.
• Market sentiment: Broader crypto market conditions and liquidity.
• Ecosystem development: Tooling improvements, integrations and new use cases.
• Regulation: Policy changes affecting crypto infrastructure and token usage.

Internet Computer (ICP) investment tips for beginners

If you’re new to ICP or crypto generally, consider the following:

• Start small: Learn how wallets, transfers and staking work before committing larger amounts.
• Use dollar-cost averaging (DCA): Spread purchases over time instead of relying on a single entry price.
• Avoid concentration: Diversifying across assets can reduce reliance on one network or narrative.
• Follow credible updates: Track official Internet Computer and DFINITY announcements.

The Crypto.com App offers features like recurring buys, price alerts and portfolio tools to help users manage their holdings.

Internet Computer (ICP) price outlook

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 decentralized 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.

Ready to get started?

1. Sign up on the Crypto.com App in minutes.
2. Verify your account and deposit funds using your preferred method.
3. Buy Internet Computer (ICP).

FAQs about Internet Computer (ICP)

What does Internet Computer do?
Internet Computer is a blockchain network designed to host applications directly on-chain, allowing developers to build decentralized services without traditional cloud infrastructure.

Can I buy ICP with USD in the US?
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. Past performance may not indicate future results. There’s no assurance of future profitability. Before deciding to trade cryptocurrencies, consider your risk appetite. 

Crypto.com services, features and other benefits referenced in this article may be subject to eligibility requirements, token holdings, and may change at the discretion of Crypto.com.