The rise of decentralized technologies has disrupted industries from finance to file storage.But what if you could decentralize wireless networks too?That’s the promise of Helium (HNT) a Web3-powered infrastructure project known as“The People’s Network.”Whether you’re new to crypto or exploring ways to earn passive income through mining,this guide will help you understand Helium from the ground up.
What Is Helium (HNT)?
Helium is a decentralized wireless network that allows low power Internet of Things (IoT) devices to connect and share data over long ranges using blockchain technology.
Founded in 2013 and officially launched in 2019,Helium’s goal is to build a global peer-to-peer wireless network,owned and powered by the people not telecom giants.The network rewards participants in HNT,its native cryptocurrency.
Nicknamed “The People’s Network,” Helium shifts control of wireless infrastructure from corporations to individuals through community-operated hotspots.
How the Helium Network Works
Helium’s network is made up of hotspot miners physical devices that act as nodes.These hotspots:
- Provide wireless coverage for IoT devices (like scooters, sensors, or pet trackers)
- Earn HNT tokens for validating data and verifying location via a unique mechanism called Proof of Coverage (PoC)
The network supports LoRaWAN (low-power,wide-area networks) and now also 5G cellular connectivity,opening the door for mobile devices to tap into Helium’s infrastructure.
What Is the HNT Token?
HNT is Helium’s original utility and reward token.It plays several roles:
- Incentivizing hotspot hosts for network participation
- Facilitating Data Credits,which are used by device operators to send data
- Enabling ecosystem governance and staking
Key HNT Facts (2025):
- Total Supply:Capped at 223 million
- Circulating Supply:160 million
- Halving Schedule:Every 2 years next halving expected in Q3 2026
- Blockchain:Now on Solana (after April 2023 migration)
In addition to HNT,Helium also uses two new tokens:MOBILE (for 5G data usage) and IOT (for LoRaWAN usage),introduced as part of HIP-70.
The Helium Ecosystem in 2025
The Helium Network has seen major growth and evolution in 2025:
- Migration to Solana is now fully complete,giving Helium faster transactions,lower fees and access to a broader dApp ecosystem.
- Over 1 million hotspots are deployed globally,supporting IoT devices in over 70 countries.
- Helium Mobile (in partnership with DISH Network and T-Mobile in the U.S.)has expanded beta coverage in several major cities.
- Real world users like Lime,Trackpac and Invoxia are actively using the network for device tracking and data connectivity.
How to Mine or Earn HNT
Gone are the early days of easy Helium mining but opportunities still exist:
Ways to Earn HNT (or related tokens):
- Deploy a LoRaWAN Hotspot → Earn IOT tokens
- Host a 5G Small Cell → Earn MOBILE tokens
- Stake Validators (advanced) → Earn HNT rewards
- Provide Data Usage → Earn from device usage and roaming
Note: Since the migration to Solana,all mining rewards are distributed through sub-DAOs (IOT and MOBILE) and converted into HNT when claimed.
Helium (HNT) Price and Market Outlook
As of July 2025,HNT is trading around $2.18,bouncing back from its 2023–2024 lows.
Market Highlights:
- ATH: $54.88 (Nov 2021)
- 2025 YTD Performance:+38%
- Market Cap:$350 million
- Analysts predict a bullish trend if Helium Mobile gains mass adoption and real-world IoT demand continues to rise.
Why Helium Matters
Helium is revolutionizing wireless infrastructure by:
- Enabling cost-efficient IoT and mobile device connections
- Empowering individuals to earn rewards and own part of the network
- Reducing reliance on centralized telecom providers
Its real world utility sets it apart from many purely speculative crypto project.
Risks and Challenges
Despite its innovation,Helium faces notable challenges:
- Profitability pressures as network grows and rewards dilute
- Regulatory concerns around 5G and unlicensed spectrum use
- Technical complexity may deter non technical users
Always do your research before investing or setting up a hotspot.
How to Buy and Store HNT
Where to Buy HNT:
- Exchanges: Binance,Kraken,Gate.io,Coinbase (availability varies by region)
- Decentralized Options:Jupiter DEX on Solana
Best Wallets for HNT:
- Helium Wallet App official
- Solana based wallets like Phantom or Solflare
Always store your tokens in a non custodial wallet for better control and security.
Final Thoughts:Is Helium (HNT) Worth Exploring in 2025?
If you’re interested in passive income,decentralized infrastructure and real world crypto use cases,Helium (HNT) deserves your attention.With real adoption growing and a vibrant ecosystem of tokens (HNT,MOBILE,IOT) Helium continues to push the boundaries of what blockchain can do in the physical world.