Crypto wallets for beginners: Everything you need to know about cryptocurrency wallets

Beginners in cryptocurrency and cryptocurrency owners-alike now have more alternative crypto wallets than ever for properly storing their digital currency, from Coinbase to PayPal.

Cryptocurrency prices look to be on an irreversible upward trend. More people are investing in digital currencies now that Bitcoin and Ethereum have hit new all-time highs this month.

They also have a variety of choices for safeguarding their investments.

Cryptocurrencies are kept in a wallet, which is linked to a private key, which functions similarly to a password.

The quickest way to get your money into a wallet is to go back to the cryptocurrency exchange where you bought them (think Coinbase or Gemini).

However, more mainstream corporations including PayPal and Robinhood have included cryptocurrency buying, selling, and storage options.

Digital wallets maintained by software on a user’s own device are another option for crypto owners who want complete control over their investments.

You could use a cold wallet, which is essentially a local device like a hard drive that isn’t connected to the internet, to add an extra layer of security.

Trezor and Ledger, for example, make dedicated drives for cryptocurrency wallets.

Even when the devices are plugged into your computer, the companies claim that sensitive information isn’t exposed (just don’t lose the device or the key needed to access the data on it).

For a more in-depth look at how all of these options work, watch the video below:

What is a crypto wallet?

Crypto wallets keep your private keys – the passwords that grant you access to your cryptocurrencies – safe and secure while allowing you to transmit and receive cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Your private keys are stored in crypto wallets, which keeps your crypto safe and accessible. You can also send, receive, and spend cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum through them.

They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from hardware wallets like the Ledger (which looks like a USB stick) to mobile apps like Coinbase Wallet, which makes using cryptocurrency as simple as purchasing online with a credit card.

A cryptocurrency wallet enables users to manage several cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. A cryptocurrency wallet makes it simple to trade money. Because transactions are cryptographically signed, they are safe.

The wallet may be accessed from any online device, including mobile devices, and the user’s privacy and identity are protected.

As a result, a crypto wallet has all of the characteristics required for safe and secure fund transfers and exchanges between participants.

It’s pretty similar to sending or receiving money through PayPal or any other current payment method, only you’re using cryptocurrency instead.

Electrum, Blockchain.info, Jaxx, Mycelium, Samurai, and the Bitcoin paper wallet are all examples of crypto wallets.

There are many more options depending on your demands and the level of security you desire.

How do cryptocurrency wallets work?

Cryptocurrency wallets allow users to send and receive cryptocurrency, keep reading to find out how the process works. A cryptocurrency wallet is a piece of software that stores public and private keys that are unique to the wallet’s owner.

1. It is necessary for a user to create a wallet address in order to conduct cryptocurrency transactions.
2. The wallets allow you to interact with blockchains, allowing you to conduct purchases and transactions as well as keep track of your balance.
3. A private key can be compared to a password, whereas the public key can be compared to a username. 
4. As a result, it’s critical that users never share their private keys. 
5. When a user transfers another cryptocurrency, the receiver must be able to match the private and public keys in order to unlock the funds and spend the coins. 
6. While no coins or currencies are exchanged, the transaction is recorded on the blockchain’s transaction record. 
7. As a result, the balance of the sender’s and receiver’s cryptocurrency wallets will change.
8. A transaction fee, whose amount varies depending on the type of cryptocurrency, wallet, and transaction type, may be charged.

Features of a cryptocurrency wallet

Now that you understand how crypto wallets function, it’s critical to understand their characteristics.

The following are some of the key characteristics of crypto wallets:

• It’s simple to use. It works simply like any other piece of software or wallet you use on a daily basis.

• Extremely safe. It’s simply a matter of keeping your private key safe.

• Allows for cross-border transactions in real time. These are also barrier-free, as there are no intermediaries.

• Transaction costs are low. Compared to regular banks, the cost of moving funds is significantly lower.

• Allows for the exchange of several cryptocurrencies. This makes currency conversions simple.

Types of cryptocurrency wallets

There are two types of cryptocurrency wallets: 

1. Hot wallets.
2. Cold wallets.

These two types of crypto wallets are based on private keys.

Hot wallets

Hot wallets are online wallets that allow you to send and receive coins instantly and they can be found on the internet. Coinbase and Blockchain.info are two examples. Private keys are saved in the cloud with hot wallets for speedier transfers.

Hot wallets are similar to the wallets we use for everyday transactions, and they are user-friendly. Hot wallets are accessible online 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and may be accessed via a desktop or mobile device, however there is a risk of unrecoverable theft if they are hacked.

Hot wallets are further divided into: 

1. Software and mobile wallets
2. Online wallets

Software wallets

A software wallet is an application that is downloaded onto a device, which might be a desktop or mobile device, or a web-based wallet that is accessed online.

Popular software wallets include Breadwallet, Jaxx, and Copay. Desktop wallets, online wallets (web wallets), and mobile wallets are the three types of software wallets.

Mobile wallets

Mobile wallets are similar to online wallets, however they are designed specifically for use and accessibility on mobile phones.

These wallets offer a simple user interface that makes transactions simple. Mycelium is the greatest mobile wallet currently available.

Online wallets

There are many types of Internet-based hot wallets. Users have the advantage of being able to access their wallets from any device.

It may be a tablet or a desktop computer, or you could use your mobile browser. The private keys are handled by a third party and stored online.

GreenAddress, for example, is a Bitcoin wallet that can be used on the web, has an Android app, can be used on a PC, and can also be used on iOS.

Cold wallets

Cold wallets are similar to vaults in that they hold cryptocurrency in a secure manner. They are not kept in the cloud on the internet; instead, they are kept offline for maximum protection. Trezor and Ledger are two examples of cold wallets.

Cold wallets are digital offline wallets that sign transactions offline before disclosing them online.

Private keys are saved in cold wallets on separate hardware that is not linked to the internet or the cloud, or on a paper document.

The manner of transaction in cold wallets helps to safeguard the wallet from illegal access (hacking and other online vulnerabilities).

Cold wallets are further divided into three types:

1. Desktop wallets
2. Hardware wallets that can be plugged into a USB drive; and
3. Typical paper wallets, in which you print your public and private keys on a piece of paper and store them safely.

Desktop wallets

Desktop wallets are cold wallets that hold private keys on cold servers (in your desktop). You can disconnect the wallet from the Internet, conduct some offline transactions, and then reconnect the wallet to the Internet. 

In the event that the primary server fails, a cold server, which is essentially your desktop, is used as a backup server.

These wallets can be downloaded on any computer, but they can only be accessed from the system they’re installed on, so make sure the desktop or machine you’re downloading the desktop wallet on is safe (has a backup and is kept in a secure location), and that you’re maintaining the hardware and not letting it go anywhere.

These wallets are unquestionably cost-effective. One of the most popular desktop wallets is Electrum.

Hardware wallets

A hardware wallet is a form of cold storage device that holds the user’s private key in a secure hardware device, such as a USB. These wallets resemble portable devices that may be plugged into a computer (plugged in).

They are less vulnerable to hostile attacks and are hack-proof, as previously stated. The most popular hardware wallets are Ledger, Trezor, and KeepKey.

To make a transaction with your hardware wallet, you must first check that it is connected to your computer system.

Paper wallets

A paper wallet is a method of storing cryptocurrencies offline. This wallet is a printed piece of paper that contains both your private and public keys. Both of which can be accessed using a QR code.

These wallets are often used for storing huge quantities of cryptocurrency since they are secure. Two popular paper wallets are Bitcoin Paper Wallet and MyEtherWallet.

Relationship Between Paper Wallet and Software Wallet

A paper wallet is used in conjunction with a software wallet to transfer funds from the software wallet to the public address displayed on the paper wallet.

You deposit your assets in a software wallet first, then transfer them from there to the public address printed on the paper wallet.

What is the best way to use a cryptocurrency wallet?

Simple apps to more advanced security solutions are all available as crypto wallets. Wallets come in a variety of styles, including:

• Paper wallets: Keys are written on a tangible medium, such as paper, and stored in a secure location. This makes it more difficult to spend your crypto because, being digital money, it can only be used on the internet.

• Hardware wallets: Keys are stored on a thumb drive that is kept in a secure location and is only linked to a computer when you need to utilize your cryptocurrency. The goal is to strike a balance between safety and convenience.

• Online wallets: Keys are saved in an app or other software; opt for one with two-factor authentication. As a result, sending, receiving, and utilizing crypto is as simple as using an online bank account, payment system, or brokerage.

Each has its own set of tradeoffs. Because they are stored offline, hostile individuals have a tougher time accessing them, but they are limited in usefulness and can be lost or deleted.

The simplest method to get started in crypto is to use an online wallet provided by a big exchange like Coinbase, which provides a good blend of security and accessibility.

(Because your personal information is stored online, your safety against hackers is limited to the security of your wallet provider — seek for measures like two-factor authentication.)

You can easily access your crypto holdings by using an app like Coinbase Wallet or Exodus. 

You can do the following with a cryptocurrency wallet:

• You have control over your own private keys.

• Send and receive cryptocurrency from and to any location on the planet.

• Instead of long, hexadecimal “public key” addresses, cryptocurrency wallets help you interact with usernames.

• Dapps can be found here (decentralized finance apps).

• You can shop in stores that accept cryptocurrencies.

Why are crypto wallets important?

Unlike a traditional wallet, which can hold physical cash, crypto wallets do not store your cryptocurrency.

Your assets are stored on the blockchain, but only a private key can access them.

Your keys verify that you own your digital money and allow you to transact with it. You lose access to your money if you lose your private keys.

That’s why it’s critical to keep your hardware wallet secure or to utilize a reputable wallet service like Coinbase.

Cryptocurrency wallets FAQs

What is the procedure for creating a cryptocurrency wallet?

To begin, consider how you want to use your wallet: on your phone, on your computer, on a specialized website, or on a device that holds keys without access to the Internet.

It’s also worth noting that not all wallets are compatible with all platforms.

Make sure the wallet you choose supports the cryptocurrency you want to use and is backed by a reputable and reliable company.

Most wallet creators provide step-by-step instructions for utilizing their products, and the process is similar to setting up an e-mail account.

Keep a backup of your secret key and store it carefully.

What are the dangers associated with cryptocurrency wallets?

Several nations have already enacted legislation prohibiting cryptocurrency use, and authorities in other countries have indicated that they will do so soon.

Nigeria, Pakistan, Nepal, Algeria, Cambodia, and Bolivia have all banned Bitcoin, and it is unlawful to pay with it in Macedonia, Vietnam, and Bangladesh.

Ecuador has similarly outlawed cryptocurrencies, though it intends to develop its own in the future.

Is it possible for a bitcoin wallet manufacturer to steal your funds?

Private company-backed wallets can be a terrific way to store crypto cash, but they must be used with prudence.

A firm might theoretically utilize private keys entrusted to it to steal your funds. Furthermore, there have been cases where users have been unable to withdraw funds from such wallets.

It is worthwhile to choose well-known organizations that secure their consumers with cutting-edge technology.

There are numerous options: read reviews and learn about each provider’s advantages and disadvantages. That’s how you’ll be able to make a well-informed selection.

What is the best way to keep my cryptocurrency safe?

Soft-technical FX’s specialists advocate “cold” storage, particularly if you expect to store your assets for a long period.

“Hot” storage is only required if the funds must be accessible at all times.

Malware that can corrupt your phone or laptop should be avoided. If you choose to use an online wallet, be wary of emails purporting to be from the wallet provider; they could be a scam.

A genuine message frequently contains information that is only known by the sender.

Phishing scam emails sometimes replicate genuine company logos and language to lull you into a false sense of security.

Pay close attention to the email address; there could be any errors.

What happens if the cryptocurrency does not show up in your wallet?

This is dependent on how long it takes a coin to produce a transaction block.

Six confirmations are required before a transaction can be completed in bitcoin; on average, it takes around an hour, although this might vary depending on network congestion.

Other cryptocurrencies may require more confirmations, however this does not necessarily imply a delayed transaction.

Ethereum, for example, requires 24 confirmations but may be accomplished in a matter of minutes.

Is it possible for the cryptocurrency to vanish from the wallet?

Assume you had some money in your account, but it has now been depleted. What happened to the money? Your coins may have been moved to “cold” storage.

Some online wallet providers function in such a way that their clients’ keys and assets are kept safe, and when a user wishes to make a payment, his or her funds are transferred from “cold” storage to the billing address of choice.

When a blockchain fork occurs, how can you get fresh coins?

This is feasible, but not all wallets support it. Furthermore, the technique may not be instantaneous.

Developers of such wallets typically examine forks and examine the new chain for pre-mining or other suspicious activity.

If nothing similar is discovered, the wallet may support the fork, and clients who own the associated coins will receive a new asset.

It can happen extremely quickly at times. For example, two days after the fork of bitcoin, Freewallet created a wallet for Bitcoin Cash, and its users received additional coins. This was the first provider to support the fork.