What is a hardware wallet?

A device for managing private keys and authorising transactions. How you use it matters too.

Your assets are on the blockchain

A wallet does not contain coins in the way a physical purse does. It manages the keys used to authorise transactions. A hardware wallet is designed to isolate these keys from your computer or phone and sign transactions under the conditions defined by the device.

What it protects, and where protection ends

Isolating keys reduces some risks from malware on a connected device. It does not guarantee that a transaction you approve is safe. Check the address, network, amount and type of approval. Where a device has a dedicated screen, compare its display with the action you intended.

A stolen backup, fake application or malicious contract can cause losses even when the device works correctly. No product offers absolute security.

What should you compare?

• Recovery: what happens if the device is lost, and what will you need?
• Verification: where do you see transaction details before signing?
• Compatibility: are your exact assets, networks and phone supported?
• Updates: how are the application and firmware distributed?
• Everyday use: can you follow the backup process reliably?

A dedicated screen or a card format?

A dedicated display can offer a separate place to verify transaction information. A card device may prioritise portability and phone interaction. Compare specific models: appearance or the presence of a security chip alone does not describe the entire security model.

Buying carefully is just the beginning

Verify the seller and follow the official authenticity checks. Never use a recovery phrase supplied by someone else, including one found in the box. Install the application from the manufacturer's stated source and understand recovery before moving significant funds.