What is a crypto wallet? – Types (hot/cold wallet)
Assalamu Alaikum
In the cryptocurrency world, a wallet is a tool or software that helps you securely store, send, and receive your digital assets (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). A common misconception is that crypto wallets store money or coins directly "inside". In fact, your coins are stored on the blockchain. The wallet simply stores your private key and public key, which gives you access to those coins.
One is the public key and the other is the private key. The public key is like your bank account number. You can give it to others so they can send you crypto. The private key is like your ATM PIN or password. Whoever has it owns your funds. It should never be shared with anyone. And the seed phrase is a secret code of 12 or 24 words. If your wallet is lost or your mobile is broken, you can get all your funds back with this code.
Based on the type of use and connection to the internet, wallets can be mainly divided into two categories: hot wallets and cold wallets. Hot wallets are always connected to the internet. They are usually in the form of mobile apps, desktop software or browser extensions. Mobile wallets: such as Trust Wallet, MetaMask apps. Desktop wallets: such as Exodus, Electrum. Exchange wallets: such as Binance or Coinbase wallets (which are basically centralized). Its advantages are that transactions can be made very quickly and easily, most hot wallets can be used for free, and are suitable for daily trading. The disadvantages are that the risk of hacking or phishing attacks is high because it is connected to the internet. Cold wallets are not connected to the internet (Offline). It keeps your private key completely offline, which makes hacking almost impossible. Hardware wallet: It looks like a pen drive-like device. For example: Ledger or Trezor. Paper wallet: Your public and private keys printed on paper. Advantages: Provides the highest level of security, hackers cannot access it remotely, best for long-term investments or storing large amounts of funds. Disadvantages: They are expensive to buy (usually $50 to $200 or more), and can be a bit of a hassle to make quick transactions.
| Features | Hot Wallet | Cold Wallet |
|---|---|---|
| Internet Connection | Always Online. | Usually Offline. |
| Security | Medium (Having Hacking Risk). | Very High (Most Secure). |
| Cost | Usually Free. | Costs to Buy Device. |
| Usability | Daily Use and Trading. | Long-Term Savings (HODLing). |
| Examples | MetaMask, Trust Wallet. | Ledger, Trezor. |
There is no way to recover your funds if you lose your seed phrase. Keep it offline (written down on paper) in a safe place. No company or customer support will ever ask for your private key or seed phrase. If they ask, you know it's a scam. If you use an exchange or online wallet, always keep 2-factor authentication enabled.
If you have a very small amount of crypto that you trade frequently, a hot wallet is sufficient. But if you want to hold large investments for a long time, it is wisest to buy a hardware (cold) wallet. Today's discussion concludes here. I hope you've found it interesting. Please share your thoughts on today's topic. Prayers for everyone. May everyone be well. Amen.
I’ve always loved sharing my passions with you — from crypto and movie reviews to photography, storytelling, and blogging. Now, continuing that creative journey, I’ve stepped into a brand-new world — Gaming ! 🎮 | 🎥 On my YouTube channel Bokhtiar The Survivor — I’m consistently working to bring you the raw thrill of my gaming experiences — the emotions, the excitement, and those unforgettable moments that make every game feel alive.



Twitter
https://x.com/i/status/2005534248359596338
https://x.com/i/status/2005173529487216669
https://x.com/i/status/2005534911290372380
https://coinmarketcap.com/community/post/372376976