Your First Crypto Wallet

When you buy cryptocurrency on an exchange, it is stored in an exchange wallet, which typically has the exchange’s control over your private key. After purchasing the coins, you can either keep them in your exchange-controlled wallet or transfer them to your personal wallet. This article will give you an overview of what a crypto wallet is all about and how you can choose your first wallet.

What Is a Crypto Wallet?

A crypto wallet is a physical device or software that allows one to store and receive digital currency. It has two key pairs: private and public.

The private key is the most crucial component of a wallet, allowing users to control their currency balances. Similar to a safe deposit box, you can access a wallet’s contents using a private key. On the other hand, a public key identifies the particular crypto holder when carrying out transactions.

Although crypto is still relatively new to many people, its wallets have a straightforward design. Some of the most popular platforms that allow users to store and receive digital currency include MetaMask and Electrum.

Understanding How Crypto Wallets Work

A blockchain is a public ledger that stores data in blocks and records all transactions. The person holding the key to the balance has the records. Crypto isn’t stored in a wallet, per se. Its coins are on a blockchain, and the wallet software allows users to interact with its balances. The owner of the wallet can then move the balance to another address.

Although each wallet has unique requirements, some general steps exist in sending and receiving funds using a blockchain wallet. First, you need to have a public key, also known as an address, to receive funds from your wallet. To do so, go to the wallet’s page and click the “generate address” button. You can copy and paste the QR code or an alphanumeric address into the message.

• To send funds, enter the address of the wallet you wish to send them. 
• In the wallet’s “send” feature, type in the address you want to send. 
• You can click the “confirm” button to send a small amount of crypto.

How to Choose a Crypto Wallet

One of the most critical factors you should consider when choosing a crypto wallet is its purpose. There are various types of wallets, and they all have unique use cases. It’s essential to stick with an option that fits your needs.

A good wallet is one of the most critical factors in the blockchain industry. MetaMask is one of the most popular wallets that supports only a few networks, such as Ethereum, Avalanche, MATIC, and Binance Smart Chain. However, it does not support Bitcoin or Solana. Other options, such as Trust Wallet, can also support Bitcoin.

When it comes to choosing a crypto wallet, security should also be top of mind. This is because the wallet can control your private keys, unlike other digital currency types.

Most of the time, you can use a wallet as a desktop or browser extension. These types of wallets are helpful when it comes to supporting decentralized finance protocols. Some websites, such as Aave, Uniswap, and Compound, have a button that allows users to connect their wallets. It eliminates the need for users to enter their email and password to access their web properties.

How to Setup a Crypto Wallet

Hardware Wallet

Although it’s usually the most time-consuming option, setting up a hardware wallet is also the most secure way to store your private keys. It allows you to keep your keys in an offline device separate from your computer, laptop, or mobile phone.

Compared to online wallets, hardware wallets are more secure. Their security comes about from the fact that hackers do not have access to your private information. Also, the offline nature of the wallet makes it harder for them to launch attacks.

You can purchase some of the hardware wallets, such as the Trezor One or the Ledger Nano X. After purchasing, download the device’s associated software and access its recovery passphrase. After that, you’ll need to connect the device to your computer. Then, you can transfer your crypto to the wallet for safekeeping.

Mobile Wallet Set Up

On the other hand, a mobile wallet is straightforward to set up. Several apps, such as ZenGo and BRD, are mobile wallets currently on the market. When making a choice, choose one that best suits your wallet needs.

Mobile wallets are easy to set up and allow you to receive payments immediately. One of the most critical steps you should take during the setup process is to backup your private keys using a recovery phrase, a 12 or 24-letter combination.

Since not all mobile wallets require this step, it is recommended to backup your private keys in case you lose them. It will allow you to access your funds when your device stops working correctly. Notably, when it comes to cryptocurrencies, there is no third party that can help you immediately after you lose your password.

Desktop Wallet Set Up

A desktop wallet is similar to a mobile wallet in that it can store all of your cryptocurrency. After you have selected the software that will allow you to manage your wallet, you can start setting it up. The desktop wallet software will ask you to backup your private keys like the mobile wallet. This process is similar to the one used in the mobile wallet.

A desktop wallet can additionally provide you with more detailed charts and graphs, which help track the value of your assets. Exodus, Liberty, and Atom wallets are popular platforms that offer this feature.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a crypto wallet is not easy, and it’s essential to consider the various factors that affect your choice. Having the proper one will allow you to store and spend your crypto coins safely. However, before you start using a wallet, it’s essential that you thoroughly read and ask for any additional guidance necessary.