Reliable cryptocurrency wallets. Holy transaction cryptocurrency wallet

An electronic wallet for cryptocurrency is an analogue of an electronic wallet, which is used to store not electronic money, but cryptocurrency (Iota, Etherium, Bitcoin, etc.). The balance is displayed on the user's personal account. The system allows not only storage, but also exchange and transfer of cryptocurrency at any time convenient for the owner. Upon registration, the creator of the wallet is issued a unique security code that must be used to log in to the system.

To create an electronic wallet for cryptocurrency with exchange for rubles, you need to decide on the system and go through a simple registration procedure. As a rule, this is not difficult, since all services have similar interfaces, which makes it possible to connect at an intuitive level. Please note that the received password should be stored in encrypted form on the same device. This greatly simplifies the process of using the crypt.

Before registering, you need to download the application to your device and install it. Next, you need to go through a simple registration:

1. Go to the "Registration" tab.
2. Provide personal data, valid e-mail and password.
3. Enter the code sent to your email for confirmation.
4. Log in to the system using your username and password.

To generate a password, use special generator services. This allows you to create a unique set of characters, which eliminates the possibility of hacking the wallet and stealing money from the account.

Electronic wallet for cryptocurrency: which one is better to choose

There are several wallets that are classified according to where they are hosted. They have significant differences in functionality.

The most reliable are desktop wallets, which are designed to be installed on a PC desktop. Through such systems, it is possible to exercise complete control over their own savings.

To choose the best and most reliable e-wallet, you should give preference to only well-known services that are very popular and have positive user reviews. There is no need to try unknown services that do not inspire confidence. It is recommended to download programs only from official sources, so as not to face scammers and not lose your savings.

Best e-wallets for cryptocurrency

Among the most popular options that are included in the rating should be highlighted:

• BitcoinCore.
• Bitcoin Knots.
• ArcBit.
• Copay.
• Multibit.
• GreenAddress.
• mSIGNA.

Among the simplest versions, Multibit and BitGo should be highlighted. They have a simplified interface and are suitable for inexperienced users because they are easy to use. It should be noted that this option is not secure enough, since it requires the transfer of information to a third party.

Full versions include Bitcoin Core and Armory. They are more reliable and require you to download full blockchains when using them, which takes about 10 GB. Such wallets need to be constantly updated and they do not work without a network connection.

Create an electronic wallet for cryptocurrency and on a mobile phone. Smartphone apps differentiated by platform on which they are installed:

1. Android - Electrum, Coin.Space and GreenAddress.
2. IOS - Arc Bit, Bitcoin Wallet and Copay.
3. Black Berry - Bitcoin Wallet.
4. Windows Phone - Coin.Space, Copay.

When registering, each user is given a private key stored on the smartphone in encrypted form using a special data encryption program. This makes it possible to quickly make a payment, which is quite convenient and appeals to most users. The only drawback of using the mobile version of applications is the inability to download the entire block of the chain, since there is not enough memory on the devices.

Purchase and storage of cryptocurrency in an electronic wallet

The best electronic wallet for withdrawing cryptocurrency is "cold", that is, one that can be stored on another medium that is not connected to the network. This eliminates the likelihood of break-ins. It is recommended to use "hot" systems for small amounts, for the purpose of making money transfers and transactions.

Among the most famous "hot" electronic options for cryptocurrency, it is worth highlighting: Xapo, Coin, Circle and Blockchain Coinbace. In this case, private keys are generated on the network and stored, as a rule, on special servers or in storages in the form of separate cells. Many users use hot wallets on multiple devices at the same time.

Among the main disadvantages of the "hot" versions, one should highlight the ability for third-party resources acting as storage to gain access to the wallet itself. This poses a serious threat to the security of a personal account in the event of cyberattacks or failures in the functioning of the client site used.

The best way to store the crypt is to have a cold hardware device. Today it can be bought for a relatively small amount. Among the most popular are the following:

• Trezor.
• DigitalBitBox.
• Ledger Nano.
• Keep Key.

This type of cryptocurrency wallets look like small savings systems and are used for long-term storage. In most cases, more assets are placed on them. It is best to choose options that are intended to use not one, but several cryptocurrencies at once. This will save you a lot of money.

Benefits of hardware wallets

Reliable cold storage is only possible on hardware wallets that are in USB stick format. To access your personal account, you just need to connect the device to your smartphone or desktop computer. The unique key required for financial transactions is built into the device. That is why it cannot be hacked. Please note that hardware wallets are protected not just by a password, but by a randomly generated expression.

Before creating a cryptocurrency wallet, you should familiarize yourself with all the options available in order to make the right choice. It is best to use options in Russian, and those that will work with an exchange where you can buy the required crypto.

Alexey Russkikh

With the development of the cryptocurrency market, the issue of their storage has become relevant. Regular wallets provide a high degree of security, but are completely devoid of convenience. A universal solution was required that would combine both convenience and security of electronic money storage. Such a solution was quickly found. A multicurrency wallet for cryptocurrency is a multifunctional and flexible tool that, with a high level of security, allows you to fix the main drawback of storing crypto money - the ability to easily manage its contents.

In our article, we will tell you in detail how much multicurrency has influenced the way bitcoins and altcoins are stored (cryptocurrency alternatives to bitcoin), as well as which wallets are the most popular and safe today.

What are they needed for?

Mining a single cryptocurrency does not always pose a storage problem. There is a separate "wallet" for each altcoin, into which it is convenient to transfer earned money, make purchases, and so on. However, today there are more than 1000 cryptocurrencies, among which there are a lot of promising and profitable ones for mining.

As a result, you can simply get confused in wallets, keep records in separate files, which is very inconvenient. A multi wallet solves all of these problems. All that remains is to make the right choice between them, having figured out what the different services offer.

Storage of cryptocurrencies on the accounts of exchanges

Before considering the types of currency storage, let's talk about another method that is very popular: storing cryptocurrency on exchanges. This is a good and versatile option, since exchanges allow you to store hundreds of different altcoins, have fixed fees, which is quite convenient. Nevertheless, the main disadvantage and negative factor that negates all the advantages of such storage is the issue of security.

Among the risks of storing crypto money on exchanges, it is worth highlighting:

1. Lack of protection and insurance against burglary.
2. Vulnerability to DDoS attacks.
3. Incomplete control over assets.

The store has a huge selection of devices in stock.

Rating of the best wallets

We will talk about the most functional, convenient, secure and reliable ways of storing cryptocurrency.

The rating is based on information from open sources, reviews and monitoring of available services. We deliberately removed the order of places in our list, because in the end, which "wallet" to choose is up to the user. Our task is to tell you about the services, their security and how convenient they are.

• Cryptonator is one of the leaders in the Russian-speaking segment. Supports 14 cryptocurrencies, allows exchanges between different types of accounts. Has a simple interface and many additional tools. The balance can be replenished with gift cards or through a mobile application. Withdrawing funds is not difficult. Of the minuses - the keys are stored by a third party, there is no multisignature, there is no backup in HD Wallet and there is no PC support.
• HolyTransaction - Supports all major cryptocurrencies. Has "cold" and "hot" types of access. Instant transfers between currencies in the vault, convenient and secure. Of the minuses - territorial restrictions. The wallet cannot be used by residents of the USA and some other countries;
• Coinomi - Supports over 60 cryptocurrencies. Has a high degree of protection and complete anonymity. Supports all languages. Access is carried out using a seed key. Among the minuses - there is no two-factor authentication and multisignature, a limited number of opportunities for using crypto-money;
• CoinsBank is an analogue of the Cryptonator from Scotland. It belongs to the type of cryptobanks and issues Visa chip cards. It actively works with most currencies (dollar, euro, ruble among the main ones). The advantages and disadvantages are the same as those of the Cryptonator;
• Is a very convenient, universal service that supports almost all types of wallets (some of them are still in development). Suitable for cold storage. Supports all major cryptocurrencies, instant transfers. Of the minuses - there are complaints about the degree of security.

Write in the comments about which wallets you use. We will tell you about the most interesting ones in our articles.

Users who decide to invest personal funds in cryptographic coins are faced with the need to create a multi-currency wallet. Without a personal account, i.e. essentially, you won't be able to exchange or mine cryptocurrency.

Today, many different services can be found on the web that are used as storage for an alternative cryptographic coin. The fact is that digital currencies are not embodied materially; accordingly, they function exclusively as an element of the Internet network.

However, what should a user do who uses several different digital currencies at once. There are several good solutions to this question:

• Choose a separate wallet for each coin.
• Register a multicurrency wallet.

Of course, the second option is more practical, since multicurrency wallets allow you to manage several digital currencies at once. Accordingly, it remains to make the final choice in favor of this or that service. If we talk specifically about universal storages for digital currencies, then in this issue it is necessary to highlight several preferred options.

What is the resourceMulti Coin Wallet?

MuCoWa is almost the only multi-currency service designed for desktop cryptographic coins. Thus, with the help of this service, work is carried out with such currencies as Bitcoin, Litecoin and Dogcoin.

If we talk about the advantages, then first of all it is necessary to emphasize the highest level of reliability. The portal guarantees maximum security for its users' investments. Installation of the program will not take much time.

Advantages and disadvantagesHolyTransaction

This wallet is also one of the universal ones, in particular, this portal allows you to work with the following popular currencies: Bitcoin, Litecoin, Darkcoin, Blackcoin.

The key advantage lies in the practicality of simultaneous use of 7 popular cryptographic coins at once. Transfers within the repository are carried out instantly.

If we talk about weaknesses, then first of all it is necessary to note the mandatory identification, moreover, only one address is created for a single coin. The portal does not work with all users, we are talking about territorial restrictions. For example, US residents will not be able to register their wallet on this service.

Service overviewNoobWallet

A fairly well-known multicurrency wallet designed to work with cryptographic coins. Despite the fact that this service is still under development, many users have already begun to actively use this resource.

Speaking of the advantages, an impressive level of security should be highlighted, such technologies to date cannot be boasted of any other storage. The most recent version only allows the use of two crypts: Bitcoin and Mavrcoin. The security system is characterized by the following distinctive features:

• Password protection manager for Google+.
• Two-level account authentication.
• Availability in use.

The user needs to wait until the storage begins to integrate a wider range of cryptocurrencies. Also, there is still no transaction history option in the interface, this section is still under implementation. However, even these shortcomings do not affect the high rating of the NoobWallet service.

Brief description of the portal Cryptonator

A well-known service for creating multicurrency wallets. This resource allows you to simultaneously work with the seven most popular digital currencies: Litecoin, Bitcoin, Darkcoin, Blackcoin and others. It is very easy and simple to use the cryptonator, an intuitive interface is one of the significant advantages of the service.

Cryptonator provides the ability to exchange or transfer coins to other wallets. Today, the portal in question is considered one of the leaders in this segment.

The main advantages also include the Russian-language interface and the ability to exchange coins between different wallets. No less important is an intuitive interface, constant updating and modernization of the program.

If necessary, the user will be able to top up the wallet using a gift card. A multifunctional mobile application has been developed to simplify the work with the resource.

Universal wallet for cryptocurrencies at c-cex.com

This resource assumes all responsibility associated with the storage of customer deposits. The user is only required to register and generate a special number for each coin. At the end of these procedures, access to the implementation of transactions with various options for digital currencies is opened.

It is not necessary to use a computer or laptop to convert or transfer funds, you can use a smartphone or tablet. The key benefits of the service include:

• The Russian-language version of the resource, which allows you to quickly understand the features of the system's functioning.
• There are no restrictions related to the size of the withdrawn amount.
• The wallet is truly versatile as the user will be able to use a wide range of digital currencies.

The only drawback is the commission costs that are charged for withdrawing funds. The size of the commission varies depending on the digital currency used, in general, we are talking about the amount of 10-15 rubles.

An equally significant advantage is the fact that the official portal of the service in question is not just a multicurrency wallet, but also an exchange platform. Thus, if you have a desire to withdraw funds to a real account, then it is better to change the crypt to Dogecoin, in the end you will not overpay.

What services are dedicated to new crypto coins?

Not so long ago, holders of the Ethereum cryptocurrency complained that managing the coin through the command line is far from the most convenient and practical option. However, the emergence of the Ethereum Wallet service has permanently solved this problem. It is not at all necessary to drive the necessary commands into the command line; it is easier to use the corresponding resource for management.

However, the new platform, which is an online wallet, is still under development. For example, at the moment, specialists are actively working to eliminate the defects already discovered as soon as possible. An ordinary user will be able to easily report the found spaces, for this you just need to contact the support service.

When choosing a multicurrency wallet for working with cryptocurrency, be sure to be guided by the following criteria:

• Interface usability level.
• Service security system.
• The amount of commission costs.
• The presence of a Russian-language interface.

Of course, it's better to work with proven platforms that have been operating in this industry for several years.

13.12.2017

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In modern conditions, earning a lot of crypto coins is not so easy, and saving them is even more difficult. As always, the best anti-hacking tool is caution, which means using trusted sites and secure software, as well as secure crypto wallets.

What are crypto wallets?

There are several types of wallets.

There is "Hot" (or "fast") that allow you to send money instantly from anywhere - there would be access to the Internet. There is "Cold" ("slow"), which cannot be easily approached, and they, of course, are more reliable.

• All online wallets, wherever they are - on separate sites or, for example, on exchanges.
• Mobile wallets. Access from smartphones and tablets is assumed.
• "Paper" wallets. They are generated on special sites, saved and, as a rule, printed as a QR code that provides access to the currency.
• In part, this also includes desktop wallets that are installed on a computer or laptop.

Best an example of a cold wallet is a hardware wallet, which is a physical device the size of a USB flash drive and contains no data other than information about the cryptocurrency.

How crypto wallets differ in terms of security

As practice shows, mobile crypto wallets hacked most often. Developers equip them with functionality of varying degrees of convenience, but the level of cryptographic protection of most wallets, including those from Google Play, is very low.

This is explained both by the small number of professionals in the cryptoindustry who can create a well-protected application, and by the capabilities of the applications themselves: fast and lightweight ones come to the top, and the proper level of cryptographic protection will make them heavier, slower, and less user-friendly. According to various sources, 70-90% of mobile crypto wallets have significant vulnerabilities. And the vulnerabilities of medium severity - more than 90%.

Online wallets suggest more opportunities for cryptographic protection, however, not all owners of the corresponding resources use these opportunities, so the degree of actual security varies from resource to resource.

"Paper" crypto wallets differ from other online wallets in that the user does not need to register: the address and private key are generated randomly on the site. Both the address and the key are presented both in alphanumeric form and in the form of a QR code. Users are assured that the private key is kept only by the owner, but in practice there is no evidence of this. Not to mention the fact that scanning a QR code with a tablet or smartphone also creates certain vulnerabilities, since the key is found on devices without protection.

Desktop crypto wallets are divided into two types: "Thick" and "thin"... The first involves downloading the wallet program and blockchain to a computer, the second - only the wallet program, and information about transactions is stored on another server, where the program accesses.

"Fat" are considered more reliable, since the other server is an invisible phenomenon, unknown as protected and maintained by someone unknown. On the other hand, server owners have the ability to protect them well - better than ordinary users do their computers. Therefore, it is more often not servers that are hacked, but individual accounts, and here already the fault of the user and the developer can be the same.

For example, the developer left a vulnerability (small, otherwise hackers would have hacked everyone, not single users), but the user himself provided access to the hacker. Either he downloaded software with viruses, or surfed the Internet without an antivirus and a brandwall, or turned off any protection to "work faster", or in some other way he took the issue of security frivolously.

If you do this, the level of security for desktop wallets will be the same. And a completely different level will be if the user takes precautionary measures:

• will install the program on a separate laptop or at least on a separate virtual machine;
• will install only reliable software;
• new sites will be accessed from under a different OS (preferably Unix-based);
• will monitor the absence of extraneous programs in the system;
• will use a separate email on a server that is harder to hack, and a separate, unknown phone number.

Hacking such a user's wallet is much more difficult, although the service itself can be the same.

However, a number of "thin" wallets, like some online resources, offer protection from user frivolity in the form of technology Hd wallet... It involves generating a seed phrase based on 12 random words, which wallets "see" as a code. Based on this code, you can create any number of addresses with your own keys without the risk of losing data. If the keys are forgotten, this phrase is enough for the user to gain access to his data.

Safety leaders are considered hardware crypto wallets... But relatively few people use them - not least because they cost about $ 100-200, when all the rest are free.

Popular crypto wallets: features and security

The list of the most popular wallets often changes, sometimes depending on the country, but in general it is quite confident, especially in the CIS, it contains Paytomat Wallet, HolyTransaction, Coinomi, Exodus, Electrum, Jaxx, Blockchain, Bitcoin Core, BitAddress, Ledger and Cryptonator.

• Paytomat Wallet- a convenient electronic wallet for smartphones. The main difference between Paytomat Wallet and other crypto wallets is that if others are focused purely on storing money, then Paytomat Wallet - on the maximum ease of transfers, which are carried out on the basis of the EOS platform. Operates on iOS and Android, and retains high ratings in the respective app stores. Today Paytomat Wallet supports several dozen cryptocurrencies. Among them are Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dash, NEM, Zcoin, Waves, TRON, EOS and others based on EOS and the ERC20 standard from Ethereum. Paytomat also has its own cryptocurrency - PTI.
• Holy transaction is a multi-currency online wallet that supports 12 cryptocurrencies, dollars and euros. In Western Europe it has extensive ATM network and continues to expand, so it is possible that it will reach the CIS countries, where cryptocurrencies are not prohibited and where their legalization is possible. It is considered one of the most user-friendly wallets for beginners due to its intuitive interface. But there is no HD wallet technology, the keys to wallets are stored on servers. The advantages are the presence of two-factor authentication and the ability to come up with a complex password. However, while Holy Transaction is working as usual, and there are practically no reviews about the unavailability of funds.
• Coinomi- mobile service, moreover only for android... Multicurrency (over 40 cryptocurrencies) and multilingual (Russian available). The code is open, which indicates the willingness of developers to cooperate. There is an HD wallet. Private keys are kept by the user, but there is no two-factor authentication. Although a malicious file that got to a smartphone and managed to get the keys to the wallets will most likely be able to steal confirmation codes, so there is not much point in it.
• Exodus keeps in the top for a long time - and for good reason. This multicurrency "thin" desktop wallet which supports internal currency exchange thanks to integration with the ShapeShift exchange. Has an intuitive and stylish interface that surpasses the look of other wallets. Differs in technical support in the person of the creators who are ready to help the beginner and listen with interest to the suggestions of experienced users. It assumes the presence of a complex password, there is an HD wallet and the ability to create a backup copy of the wallet using a utility from the developers (which is also a plus, since third-party utilities tend to be not completely secure).
• Electrum is one of the oldest bitcoin wallets. During its existence, it has released programs for different operating systems (in the form of a "thin" wallet) and applications for smartphones. Also has an open source. Convenient for those who need increased anonymity, since it works without problems when connecting to the Tor network, through a proxy, etc. It involves creating a complex password, seed key. Private keys are controlled by the user, regardless of whether he uses a desktop or mobile wallet. Reliable enough, few negative reviews, technical support is actively in contact with users.
• Jaxx- a multicurrency wallet that has both desktop and mobile versions. It partially reminds of Exodus: there is an internal currency exchange thanks to the ShapeShift integration, a convenient and intuitive interface. Seed phrase available. The pros end there. Jaxx has a fixed commission, part of the cryptocurrency is reserved for it, and the user actually does not have access to the "reserve". Security is even worse: For example, the user password is 4 digits long. But the most important thing is that money is constantly disappearing from wallets. The issue was covered in the media, there are many messages about the same on crypto forums. Owners and technical support refrain from direct answers.
• Blockchain- the most popular online bitcoin wallet, has proven to be quite reliable. But there are delays in sending funds and other disruptions. Technical support eliminates them, but with moderate efficiency. Blockchain supports two-factor authentication, it involves the creation of a strong password and seed key. Synchronization with a smartphone via a QR code is possible, which makes the personal wallet more vulnerable.
• Bitcoin core- the oldest bitcoin wallet, which is close to the official status, as developed by the Bitcoin Foundation. Classic example "Thick" desktop wallet, which completely downloads the blockchain to the user's computer, requires in this case about 100 GB and a considerable amount of RAM. Supports Russian, from OS - Windows, Linux, Mac. Hacking the network, changing the address and other troubles are practically excluded, therefore it is considered one of the safest places to store bitcoins allowing you to send them quickly and seamlessly. In fact, things are not so good with speed, since blockchain synchronization takes a long time, many novice users are confused by the cumbersomeness and volume of information. But the user is the rightful owner of all information, and, in fact, he can only lose his crypto money through an oversight.
• BitAddress- one of the most popular options paper wallets... The wallet address and key can be generated by randomly moving the mouse around the screen. Obviously, they can be at the disposal of the site owners. "Advanced" users can copy the site to a USB flash drive and run it from under a virtual machine with disabled Internet. This is a safer method, but only until the first transaction, which will require an internet connection. Not to mention the fact that a lot depends on the software with which the transfer will be made. There are few negative reviews about the service, but few use paper resources as a long-term and reliable wallet.
• Ledger- one of the most famous manufacturers hardware wallets... He has several models, they all work according to the same principle. Users have complaints about the durability of the display, otherwise there are few negative reviews about the physical rigging of the device. There are three risks, as with other hardware wallets: theft, address spoofing during a transaction, loss or distribution of the seed key. Everything risks are relatively low... You can get rid of the first if you handle your wallet carefully. The second can be reduced to almost zero if you use reliable and compatible crypto wallets through which the transfer takes place. For example, the same Electrum, but the application for Chrome, recommended by manufacturers, has not failed either. As for the seed key, it should be kept in a safe place and not rely on memory, thereby minimizing the latter risk.
• Cryptonator- one of the most popular online wallets, part-time mobile, because it has applications for iOS and Android. Multicurrency (16 crypto and 4 regular currencies, including the ruble and the hryvnia). There is two-factor authentication with confirmation by e-mail or by phone, a password is assumed. Another thing is interesting: according to reviews, there are many cases when the transaction was confirmed, but the money did not appear in the recipient's wallet. Technical support does not solve these problems, despite their prevalence. So it makes sense about talking about imperfect defense, but not the fact that it is purely technical - the human factor is also quite probable.

There are many wallets now, but the ease of access, convenience, speed, as a rule, inversely proportional to the degree of safety.

And users have to choose: either sacrifice speed and the ability to use the wallet anytime, anywhere, or risk money.

Hello dear readers of the blog site. Today, more and more people are immersed in the world of bitcoins, altcoins, exchanges and other things that they did not even think about before. At the same time, they do not always have enough knowledge in this area in order to completely minimize the risks.

In doing so, I do not mean the risks of trading on exchanges or high. The topic of this article today will be a purely technical, but very important question - which wallet (or wallets) to choose to work with the cryptocurrencies you need?

Why is it so important? I already wrote in the article that this technology itself is remarkable in the absence of a master, administration or any other intermediaries (it lives on its own). But if you lose access to your crypto wallet, then no one will restore it to you. Everything, with ends.

In addition, different types of wallets have different degrees of security and convenience. It makes sense to use different options for different tasks. Someone works with small amounts and multicurrency online wallets are suitable for him, while someone trunks huge sums of money and even a cold wallet will not be enough for him and he uses hardware to sleep well.

Actually, this is what this article will be about - what crypto wallets exist for the current 2018, what are their pros and cons, what to choose for you and, finally, how to create or get yourself a wallet with the cryptocurrency you need (or multicurrency for working with).

What is a crypto wallet and how to create it (start)

In fact, the question is not idle and there are many problems associated with the loss of crypto money(theft, break-ins, loss of access) are based on a misunderstanding of what you are working with. Many are accustomed to dealing with the type of Yandex Money, Qiwi, AdvaKesh, etc. There is technical support there that will help you solve problems with access to your account.

But when working with cryptocurrencies, in most cases, none of this will happen. You are alone with your problems and there will be no one to help you. Often, these systems and wallets where your funds are stored maintain complete anonymity, which means it will not be possible to prove that the owner is you (you just lost access) or that it was not you who transferred the money from him ( and often there is no one to prove it).

In general, according to the classics of the genre, Dear Reader, I first have to intimidate you, so that you are more attentive to all of the following. We will assume that I succeeded in this and that you are in a state of heightened attention.

So, a crypto-wallet has two aspects - its essence and its technical implementation.

The essence is not so difficult to understand. A crypto wallet is just two numbers(they are also called keys, meaning that they can be used to decrypt something):

1. You can communicate one number (word) to anyone, because it acts as the address of your wallet. It is also called a public key or just an address.
2. You shouldn't tell the second number to anyone. This is an analogue of a password that allows you to access your money (bitcoins or other altcoins). It is also called a private key. Whoever owns it also owns the money.

Clear? This is the essence of a crypto wallet. Its principle. It's simple: login (address) and password (private key).

Thus, the simplest implementation option is paper wallet when you only have the address and private key, written down on paper or saved as a screenshot. Everything. You can already receive money to this address, and if necessary, you can withdraw or transfer money by connecting this wallet to any client program.

The figure above shows an example of creating the simplest bitcoin wallet on the site Bitaddress.org(the same can be done on Bitcoin.com) You only need to receive the keys, print it in several copies and store it securely.

The wallet balance can be checked on the official Bitcoin blockchain sites - blockchain.info or blockexplorer.com, simply by entering the address (public key) there. It is not worth entering or in any other way firing the private key.

For other cryptocurrencies, there will be other official sites where all this can be done and viewed. For example, for Bitcoin this is the online wallet blockchain.info, for Ethereum - myetherwallet.com, for Monero - mymonero.com

But to withdraw funds from this wallet, you will already have to use a software solution (local or hosted online). In the client program (or on the website of the online service - all the same blockchain.info), you enter this pair of keys (address and private key), after which you will be able to manage this money.

True, until you did this, the reliability of storing money in a paper wallet was the highest (unless the printout of the keys is stolen from you or you yourself lose it). And then the reliability will already be determined by the technical solution for working with the wallet that you have chosen (see details below).

But technical implementations there can be a lot of all this (software solutions). It all depends on your goals, tasks to be solved and the desire to compromise between safety and usability.

Client programs serve not only to quickly create wallets, but also to provide a user-friendly interface, and can work both on your computer and on a phone, tablet, or even on a remote server where the online service you are using is located.

Moreover, modern client programs can automatically create new wallet addresses for you for each transaction () to make it harder to track you. The old addresses will also belong only to you and can be used - don't worry.

Rating of crypto wallets

Before proceeding, I will immediately make a reservation that there is such a wonderful resource in all respects as Cryptocompare and it has rating of cryptocurrency wallets .

Here, however, all crypto-wallets are collected in a heap - both online, and mobile, and cold (thick and thin), and hardware, and multicurrency, but nonetheless. But you can clearly see which currencies can be stored in this wallet, what type it is (for which OS it is designed), how easy it is to work with it and how much your anonymity (incognito) will be preserved when working with it.

It is also very important to pay attention to degree of safety work with this program (application or online service). The best option is a green shield representing cold wallets that store the private key on your device. The yellow shield will be a little worse - the private key is stored by third parties, but in encrypted form. And at all seams, when the shield is brown - your money is extremely weakly protected and hackers can get to it.

This rating of crypto wallets does not mean that you need to take the top one from this list and work only with it. No. Everything will depend on the tasks you are solving, on the convenience and on the degree of your personal paranoia. The main thing is that your chosen "wallet" is present in this list, because you can easily fall for the bait of scammers, of which there are a great many.

Hardware, cold, multicurrency - which is better

As you might have guessed, there are a great many options for implementing client programs for storing currency. How do they differ from each other and which one should you choose for yourself? I do not know. Honestly. But I can explain to you in simple words what each of the types of wallets is and what tasks it solves. Well, and you will already make the choice yourself, but on the other hand it is quite conscious.

1. Hardware Is the most reliable crypto wallet option. Why? Because the device (something similar to a USB flash drive with a button) stores a private key (password) inside itself and it will not be possible to access it via the network (the device outputs an already formed transaction and nothing more). This device naturally costs money, but not so much (a hundred bucks on average).
2. Cold(local) - Not 100% reliable, but free. It is a program (for a computer or mobile phone). The private key is stored on your computer (or flash drive), although it can also be stored in paper form (in the form of a printout or a QR code), which increases security, but reduces usability. In fact, until you have made a single payment from it (never used a private key) - a cold crypto wallet will be as reliable as a hardware wallet (you can also check the receipt of payments to your address on third-party blockchain control services). Therefore, it can serve as an alternative option for accumulating large amounts.
3. Online(hot) - the least protected, because your private key is either stored on a third-party server on the network (i.e., your wallet, in fact, does not belong to you, but there is a chance to restore access to money in case of force majeure with the help of technical support) , or transferred from your computer when connected to the wallet. In any case, the likelihood of being stolen is greatly increased. But the convenience of use (access from any device from anywhere in the world) and problem solving increases.

P.S. Word cold in this case, it means that the wallet does not require a permanent connection to the Internet (to receive payments, as I already mentioned, you don't even have to go into it - specify the address of your wallet and check the arrival of the payment on sites that allow you to view transactions in the blockchain). A hot accordingly, it requires a network connection, which makes it more vulnerable to attacks.

P.S.2 Cold wallets there are "thick" and "thin". "Thick" download the entire blockchain (a list of all transactions) to your computer. This case can weigh a hundred gigabytes and swing for several days. But working with thick wallets is considered safer. However, a fat monster will not fit on a tablet or a clodbook (yes, and a regular laptop).

Therefore, there are "Thin" cold wallets, where the blockchain is stored online and will need to be accessed over the network. The security here will be lower, but the convenience is higher, especially if you work on one computer with many altcoins.

Multicurrency and single-currency crypto wallets

Even five years ago, there were only one or two cryptocurrencies and there weren't enough (bitcoin, lightcoin, ether, and a little more). It’s not like that now. Even, and in total there are already more than one and a half thousand.

It is clear that working with each altcoin (this is such a unifying name for all crypto-currencies except bitcoin) from a separate (albeit "official") crypto wallet is not always convenient.

Demand creates offers, and today you can download and use a range of multicurrency crypto wallets working both on a computer (as a program or browser extension) and on a mobile phone. Well, and, of course, you can find a bunch of online services that provide a convenient multi-currency wallet.

Some of the multicurrency wallets are very well protected (in fact, they are cold - you can install it on a USB flash drive and put it in a safe). The other part is moderately protected, well, and there are hot wallets (online) that captivate with their unrivaled convenience.

Do you know those? Yes, of course you do. Almost - this is essentially a multi-currency online wallet for storing (and promptly exchanging) a variety of altcoins and bitcoins.

So which one to choose - multicurrency or single-currency?

As a rule, the official sites of cryptocurrencies offer options for single-currency (less often multiple-currency) wallets (an example is the official site of bitcoin). In principle, these applications can be trusted and their reliability (and the honesty of the developers) is verified (I already wrote about it). This option, as it were, can be considered more reliable.

Therefore, the solution to the choice dilemma can be presented as follows:

1. If you want to work only with bitcoin and one or two altcoins then you might consider installing their "official" wallets. As I mentioned, the best security option is hardware, followed by thick cold wallets and then thin clients. Well, and round out this rating in terms of reliability are online services.
2. However, if you you need to work with a dozen altcoins, then a multicurrency wallet can be a lifesaver. Hardware crypto wallets, both cold and hot, can be multicurrency. True, hardware does not support a large number of currencies, so you will most likely have to choose either between cold ones (desktop or mobile), or between online wallets.

Well, that was all theory, and now it's time to move on to practice.

Best Multicurrency Crypto Wallets

I want to start with an overview of the best multicurrency wallets, because this direction is now the most popular and in recent years very high-quality and very safe solutions have appeared here for storing many altcoins in one place.

Nowadays there are few who limit their work to a few coins. The market is very dynamic and most of the participants try not to miss out on profit by trading in many currency directions at once (depending on where the wind is blowing). What do we offer to ensure the convenience of such work?

Cryptocurrency exchanges as multi-currency online wallets

As I mentioned, the most obvious way to implement multicurrency storage of cryptocurrencies is by yourself. exchanges where you trade them... In most of them, immediately after registration, you will have at your complete disposal a whole set of wallets for each of the currencies used on this exchange.

There are well-known exchanges where dozens of coins are traded, and you can get the same number of online wallets at your disposal:

It is very convenient and you can quickly transfer one currency to another, depending on the current market conditions. The disadvantages of this method are also obvious. Private keys are not stored with you, which means that all this money belongs, in fact, to the exchange. If something happens to it (it closes, it gets hacked), then you will be left with nothing.

But if large amounts are not stored there or they are quickly withdrawn to real (rubles, dollars, euros), as if fixing profits, then the ease of use can overshadow the possible risks. For example, I often, or rather the wallets I have open there, in order to withdraw bitcoins and altcoins from other exchanges and online services, because it allows, on fairly acceptable conditions, to convert all this wealth into rubles.

Cold, hot, mobile, but multicurrency

As I mentioned above, there is a certain rating of crypto wallets(how representative he is not for me to judge), which you can rely on when choosing. Rather, just rely on (ie choose from what is there), but not follow literally, because the final rating is always a kind of "average temperature in the hospital."

1. Hardware ( Trezor, Ledger, KeepKey) - they are all multicurrency, although they do not hold the record for the number of coins used. There will be a separate conversation about them (scroll down the text a bit to the pictures with images of all these devices). Their main feature is almost 100% reliability and security. Minus - not free and a certain decrease in the efficiency of work with accounts.
2. Exodus- the current leader of the rating and at the same time a multi-currency and multi-platform wallet. It is well protected and it is very important that at the same time it is you who own your private key (it is stored on your computer), and not a third-party service. In fact, this is a cold wallet with all the ensuing advantages (see them above). There is an opportunity to contact technical support.

   Its interface also includes a built-in coin exchanger and portfolio visualization (ala an exchanger or a simple crypto exchange), and it also has a developed data backup system necessary to restore access to your money in case of force majeure (there is even an option to send Seed- key to your email in encrypted form). Read more about this (wallet backup) below.

3. Coinomi- a good example of a multicurrency mobile (works under android, but soon promises a version for iOs) crypto wallet that stores a private key on the device, i.e. works in cold mode. The number of altcoins he works with is incalculable (almost a hundred).

   

   To back up all wallets, it will be enough to write (or print) a specially created passphrase (Seed-key) just once. It is possible to quickly exchange coins for each other internally using ShapeShift or Changelly exchangers. Some even use it on the desktop with.

4. Blockchain Is one of the most popular and reliable online options (it is also often called ""). True, the reliability is relative, because your private key is still stored by third parties (on the server of this service), but in an encrypted form, which somewhat reduces the risks of its theft by hackers.

   Blockchain Wallet can hardly be called multicurrency, because there you can work with two cryptocurrencies, but the most popular ones are bitcoins (including Bitcoin Cash) and ether. Among other online wallets, it is by far the most reputable and has the largest number of users.

   It is very simple to create (create) a wallet here (the client interface has been translated into Russian), and it is very convenient to use it. The security of working with money is at a high level (two-factor authorization, a secret phrase to restore access). Well, all the other advantages are associated with online placement - accessibility from anywhere from any device. By the way, there are convenient applications for Adroid and iOs, which is important.

5. Jaxx- is trying to compete with the market leader Exodus on its own field, but is still not in the readiness to win, but nevertheless has already gained considerable popularity among users.

   This is a cold, well-protected multicurrency crypto-wallet that has the same stylized mobile, browser and desktop (portable, which can be stored and run from a flash drive) versions that can be synchronized with each other. The security of working with money is at a level here and the only thing that can still cause criticism is insufficient functionality and flaws in the implementation of the code.

Best cold crypto wallets

Everything is simpler here. Most of them I have already listed above (in the list of the best multicurrency wallets):

Only hardware wallets are even "colder" (read more about them below):

It only remains to add a few items, some of which are highly noteworthy. These wallets are single currency, but very convenient and reliable. It probably makes sense to use them to store the main cryptocurrencies (although all markers are different in taste and color):

Best Mobile Crypto Wallets

Best crypto hardware wallets

At the moment there are several companies producing these devices. In appearance, they can resemble a USB flash drive with buttons and a small screen. What is their essence? Naturally, the reliability of keeping money. Even a cold, single-currency wallet like Bitcoin Core is not 100% reliable simply because your computer can be infected with a virus.

Bitcoins and altcoins now cost crazy money and the number of hunters for other people's capital is growing, because everything "digital" can be hacked. In response to this, special products have appeared for the reliable storage of coins. Essentially, they are all the same cold wallets, but into which it is almost impossible to climb from the side.

Typically, crypto hardware wallets are quite compact (about the size of a USB flash drive), but require a connection to a computer or cell phone to function. There are also standalone solutions, but they are no longer compact. In general, it can be carried in your pocket and used from anywhere in the world from any PC or mobile phone.

Naturally, they cost money and you need to order them from the official websites of manufacturers, and then wait some more time until it is delivered to you. At the moment, there has been three leaders in the hardware crypto wallet market:

Why are crypto hardware wallets so reliable?

Let me explain using the example of a device called the Trezor. It is not expensive - a little over a hundred bucks including delivery, but it really is worth it, because your private key is not transferred anywhere from this device (transactions are signed inside the device even if there is no access to the network).

Viruses for him have not yet been invented, which means that the theft is possible only through physical seizure of the Trezor or its loss. But even here you can be calm. Access to the device is protected by a pin code (we enter it with the mouse in the web interface of our own software or a compatible wallet). If you do not know the pin code, you will not get access to the money.

In order for your money not to disappear along with the device, you will need at the very beginning of use write down a Seed-phrase (of two dozen words) or take a photo of it. Never store it on your computer, phone, or anywhere else that hackers can reach. If you lose the device, you can restore access to the wallet, which is great.

In general, if you don't screw up yourself (you are not or another method of social engineering), then nothing should happen to your money protected by a hardware wallet. The maximum is that you will get a little nervous when restoring access.

How to top up or withdraw money from a crypto wallet

Literally for a few more minutes I will torment you and finally leave you alone - just not everyone can be in the know how to enter and withdraw cryptocurrency from the network.

Really. Do you have rubles or dollars. How to top up your crypto wallets with them. This can be done in at least three ways:

1. - it's very simple and fast. As a rule, it will be possible to use bank cards or money on accounts of payment systems (Qiwi, Yandex Money, AdvaKesh, Payer and others) to replenish the account. I use these services most often:

   And to find the best courses among them, I use monitoring services:

   If the exchanger does not have the currency you need, then you can buy bitcoins (or other popular altcoins), and then exchange them for the desired currency either in a multicurrency wallet or on exchanges, which will be discussed below
2. - not all exchanges work with fiat money (some allow you to enter and withdraw only bitcoins and altcoins, but not rubles or dollars). Although, as I mentioned above, you can buy bitcoins in the exchanger and exchange them for the desired altcoin on the exchange. I recently, because she has many different options for input / output with a fully sane commission. Read more at the link provided.
3. Receiving payment for goods / services, or vice versa, spending your cyber money on all this. The problem here lies in the fact that there are still quite a few services and goods paid in this way in the world.

How to back up your wallet

This action is mandatory and most of the more or less sane client programs or online services will offer you to do it right away after the creation (institution) of the wallet. Thanks to this backup, you can restore access to money even if you lose your laptop, phone, PC or hardware wallet, not to mention cases of freezing, failure or accidental deletion of the client program.

Backup in its simplest form will represent what at the very beginning of the article I called a paper crypto wallet. Those. it's just two keys - public (address) and private (private). They represent an unthinkable set of symbols, often still represented.

Although recently crypto wallets offer a more original way to create a backup - using a Seed phrase consisting of a dozen or two dozen words, usually written in Latin.

In any case, both the keys and the Seed-phrase should not be stored on a computer with Internet access. Ideally, write or print the information you need to regain access and keep it in a drawer or safe (but not in your pocket). Preferably in several copies.

Some desktop client programs store keys in the wallet.dat file (or something similar). A simple backup of this file can then help in case of restoration of access. But it is better to carefully read the recommendations of those who work with the same client as yours, and understand how it all works and works in the case of your crypto wallet implementation.

There are a number of other backup options, but these may vary from client to client. In any case, worry about the backup right away, and not when it's too late. If there are several ways to create backups of data, then use them all.

But do not forget that this data cannot be reported to anyone and transferred, because in this way you give everything that you have (to the scammers who caught you by the bait). And it is better to store them outside the computer or phone.

Good luck to you! See you soon on the pages of the blog site

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