Wallet

Software or hardware that stores keys and signs transactions.

Security & Custody Also called crypto wallet, hot wallet

A wallet does not hold coins. It holds the keys that authorise moving coins recorded on the blockchain, which is why restoring a seed phrase restores your balance on any device.

Hot wallets stay connected to the internet for convenience; cold wallets keep keys offline. Most people benefit from using both for different purposes.

Back to the Crypto Glossary