Bitcoin averts split as miners back new software upgrade

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Digital currency bitcoin on Friday averted a split into two currencies after its network supported an upgrade to its software that would enhance its ability to process an increasing number of transactions.

Bitcoin'sminers have signaled their support for the so-called Bitcoin ImprovementProposal (BIP) 91, avoiding a split of bitcoin into two blockchains. The minersrepresent a network of computer operators who secure the blockchain or a public ledger of all bitcoin transactions.