Hey guys.

So, I'm a newb, and just started mining yesterday. I'm on Windows 10, running Ethminer on the minergate pool.

I don't use Minergate's gui tool.

I've been running geth alongside ethminer and am wondering if I need to be doing this, or if I'm wasting resources by doing so?

I'd prefer to stick with Minergate, unless there is a compelling reason to use something else, as it's simpler than other options I've seen (for a newb like me).

My background is computer programming.

PS: Should I be mining Monero with my CPU alongside the GPU mining of Etherum?

Thanks so much for help. I'm kind of lost at sea here with all the different mining options and currencies.

My overall goal is to sell/convert my minings into Bitcoin so I can buy stuff, naturally.

PC specs:

• I7-4790k @4.7Ghz.
• XFX RX 480 GTR 8GB @1420 Mhz.
• 16GB DDR3 Ram @1800mhz.
• 512GB SSD.
• 650W PSU.