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Bitcoin mining - getting things going.

Software

CGminer for one device
BFGminer for multiple devices
eoBot has their own software that works with many devices for SHA-256 and SCRYPT
Bitminter has easy to use java based software for Bitcoin only.

Config

The basics: to mine altcons add --scrypt
to autostart asic miners use -S all
your pool info follows -o
to set your username/password -O
so a basic batchfile to start your miners might look like this:
bfgminer.exe --scrypt -S all -o stratum+tcp://ltc.ghash.io:3333 -O platycat.gaw:go
or
bfgminer.exe -S all -o stratum+tcp://us1.ghash.io:3333 -O platycat.bfl60:x

Cooling

Your miners need to stay cool to function optomally. Be sure to consider cooling costs when determinging mining profitability!
Find helpful accessories in our Bitcoin4.us Shop.

Pools

F2Pool A.K.A. Discus Fish, is one of the oldest polls and supports merged namecoin mining with no fees.
BitMinter Is a solid pool with a java based software that makes things easy if you don't mind paying a 1% pool fee
GHASH.io the CEX.io mining pool. A huge pool with 0 fees.
AntPool Bitmain's mining pool has 0 fees and pays out every day.
eoBot offers both a mining pool and a cloudmining option. A great choice for re-investing a portion of your earnings into more hashing power!
Slush's Pool one of the oldest pools, but a 2% fee
 
know more great pools we should add to the list? let us know!