Ripple is a payment network that uses its own cryptocurrency called XRP. Originally designed to be a payment settlement system that could settle transactions globally, it has added currency exchange functionality to its systems. It uses blockchain technology to facilitate the remittance of cryptocurrencies without the need for financial middlemen dealing across currencies. As opposed to using a blockchain system for confirming transactions, Ripple employs a consensus mechanism through a group of bank-owned servers to confirm transactions. Ripple transactions are known to use less energy than bitcoin transactions.