What is a Crypto Wallet?

Addresses and keys

A public address is similar to a destination: other people can use it to send assets to your blockchain account. A private key is secret information used to authorize transactions. Anyone who controls the private key may be able to control the associated assets.

Your balance lives on the blockchain

The wallet reads blockchain data and presents balances and activity in a useful interface. The network’s record determines the balance; the wallet helps you access and manage it.

Signing a transaction

When you send, swap or approve access, the wallet prepares a transaction and asks you to review it. Signing proves that the holder of the relevant key approved the action. The signed transaction can then be submitted to the network.

Everyday wallet actions

• Receive: share the correct public address for the intended network.
• Send: choose the asset, network, recipient and amount, then review before signing.
• Swap: review the assets, quote, fees and permissions before approving an exchange route.

Continue with custodial vs self-custodial wallets, recovery phrases, and crypto safety.