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Cryptocurrency wallet on a computer. What is a cryptocurrency wallet? Wallet for cryptocurrencies Blockchain

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. As such, you will not be able to exchange or mine cryptocurrency.

Today you can find many online various services, which are used as storage for an alternative cryptographic coin. The fact is that digital currencies are not materially embodied; accordingly, they function exclusively as an element of the Internet network.

However, what should a user who uses several different digital currencies do? There are several good solutions to this issue:

Of course, the second option is more practical, since multicurrency wallets allow you to manage several digital monetary units at once. Accordingly, all that remains is to make the final choice in favor of one service or another. If we talk specifically about universal storage facilities for digital currencies, then in this matter it is necessary to highlight several preferable options.

What is a resourceMulti Coin Wallet?

MuCoWa is perhaps 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 Dogecoin.

If we talk about the advantages, then first of all it is necessary to emphasize highest level reliability. The portal guarantees maximum security for its users' investments. Installing 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 is the practicality of using 7 popular cryptographic coins at once. Transfers within the vault 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're talking about about territorial restrictions. For example, US residents will not be able to register their wallet on this service.

Service overviewNoobWallet

A fairly well-known multi-currency wallet designed to work with cryptographic coins. Despite the fact that this service is still in a state of development, many users have already begun to actively use this resource.

Speaking about the advantages, we should highlight the impressive level of security; no other storage facility today can boast of such technologies. The most latest version allows you to use only two crypts: Bitcoin and Mavroin. The security system is characterized by the following distinctive features:

  • Password protection manager from Google+.
  • Two-level account authentication.
  • Availability to use.

The user needs to wait until the storage begins to integrate a wider range of cryptocurrencies. There is also 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 Kryptonator portal

A fairly well-known service for creating multi-currency wallets. This resource allows you to simultaneously work with the seven most popular digital currencies: Litecoin, Bitcoin, Darkcoin, Blackcoin and others. Using the cryptonator is very easy and simple, intuitive clear interface– 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. Equally important is a clear interface, constant update and program modernization.

If necessary, the user will be able to top up the wallet using gift card. Multifunctional mobile app, which simplifies working with the resource.

Universal wallet for cryptocurrencies at c-cex.com

This resource assumes all responsibility related to the storage of client deposits. The user only needs to register and generate special number for each coin. Upon completion of these procedures, access to transactions with various options digital currencies.

To convert or transfer funds, it is absolutely not necessary to use a computer or laptop; you can use a smartphone or tablet. The key advantages of the service include:

  • Russian-language version of the resource, which allows you to quickly understand the features of the system.
  • There are no restrictions related to the size of the withdrawal amount.
  • The wallet is truly universal, 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 withdrawal. Money. The size of the commission varies depending on the used digital currency, 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 multi-currency wallet, but also an exchange platform. Thus, if you want to withdraw funds to a real account, then it’s better to change the crypt to Dogecoin, in the end you won’t overpay.

What services are intended for new cryptographic coins?

Not long ago, holders of the Ethereum cryptocurrency complained that managing the coin through command line- far from the most convenient and practical option. However, the emergence of the Ethereum Wallet service solved this problem forever. It is absolutely not necessary to type the necessary commands into the command line; it is easier to use the appropriate resource for management.

However, the new platform, which is an online wallet, is still at the development stage. For example, on this moment specialists are actively working to eliminate the already discovered deficiencies as soon as possible. Regular user will be able to easily report any gaps found; to do this, you just need to contact support.

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

  • Level of interface convenience.
  • Service security system.
  • Amount of commission costs.
  • Availability of Russian-language interface.

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

Therefore, we decided to compile our own rating of cryptocurrency wallets. Let's say right away that we did not include this rating wallets that are aimed at storing one type of cryptocurrency, such as , and . But you can get acquainted with them by clicking on their name. Today we will provide the TOP cryptocurrency wallets, and determine the best cryptocurrency wallet according to the blog. It is also very important to note the fact that we will make up our TOP from wallets that support more than 2.

CRYPTOCURRENCY WALLETEXODUS

Before we started studying the market of multicurrency crypto wallets, we knew nothing at all about the EXODUS wallet, but to be honest, it surprised us so much that we decided to put it in first place in the ranking of cryptocurrency wallets. This wallet is a desktop wallet, so you must install it on your computer before using it. Versions available for operating systems Windows, MacOs and Linux. Exodus wallet supports 15 cryptocurrencies. Read more about the Exodus wallet in our.

CRYPTOCURRENCY WALLETHOLY TRANSACTION

CRYPTOCURRENCY WALLETCOINOMI

CRYPTOCURRENCY WALLET

Safety, good service, impeccable reputation and the presence of an affiliate program - all this can be said about the wallet, which we put in 4th place in our rating. The only aspect that the coinbase developers need to work on is the small number of supported cryptocurrencies. For more details about the COINBASE wallet, read.

CRYPTOCURRENCY WALLETCRYPTONATOR

Multi-currency wallet, this is the first cryptocurrency wallet that we started using. That is why we could not help but include it in this TOP. But besides our almost “family” connections with him, he provides really good service. It happens, of course, that it is very difficult to replenish your wallet with rubles; for this you need to use additional resources, such as PayPal, for example, and this adds commissions. There are no problems with withdrawing money. To find out how to register and work for this resource, read our detailed information about this service.

This is exactly how we see the rating of crypto multicurrency wallets. If you have your thoughts on this matter, you can express them in the comments below. That's all, dear friends, if you are interested in finding out how we present the rating of cryptocurrency exchanges, then read this and do not forget to subscribe to our group in

And etc.). The account shows current balance funds, making it convenient to send, receive and exchange a specific amount at any time. Upon registration, the owner receives a private key, which allows access to the wallet from anywhere in the world. A secret code confirming the right to control the wallet and spend coins from it is stored on a computer or remote server.

Types of wallets

There are many types of wallets for storing cryptocurrencies. They are classified depending on their location and differ in functionality. Let's look at the most common types.

Desktop or local wallets for your computer

Installed on the PC desktop, providing the owner with full control over savings. Popular desktop applications:

  • ArcBit;
  • Electrum Bither;
  • Copay;
  • Armory;
  • mSIGNA;
  • Bitcoin Knots;
  • Multibit;
  • BitGo;
  • Bitcoin Core;
  • GreenAddress.

They are divided into “light” (BitGo, Multibit) and “full” (Armory, Bitcoin Core). Full ones are characterized by increased reliability, but require downloading the entire blockchain block chain (about 10 GB), regular updating and synchronization. Light wallets are easier to use, but they receive the necessary information from third-party resources, which is accompanied by the transfer of data to a third party and reduces the level of security of wallets.

Mobile versions

Convenient wallets that run as an application on a smartphone. These may be versions for mobile platforms:

  • IOS – Copay, GreenAddress, Airbitz, Bitcoin Wallet, Bither, Coin.Space, ArcBit, BTC.com Bitcoin Wallet;
  • Android – Coin.Space, Copay, Simple Bitcoin Wallet, Bitcoin Wallet, Airbitz Bitcoin Wallet, ArcBit, BTC.com Bitcoin Wallet, Bither, breadwallet, Electrum, GreenAddress, GreenBits, Mycelium;
  • Windows Phone – Copay, Coin.Space;
  • BlackBerry – Bitcoin Wallet.

Private keys for Bitcoin addresses are stored in encrypted form on the phone, which will allow you to quickly make payments from it. Main disadvantage is that they are not able to load the entire chain block due to lack of memory.

"Hot" or online wallets

Convenient for beginners, as they are accessible from any device connected to the network. Web wallets include:

  • BTC.com;
  • Coinapult;
  • Blockchain Coinbase;
  • BitGo;
  • Xapo;
  • Strongcoin;
  • Coin;
  • Space;
  • Circle;
  • GreenAddress.

Private keys are generated upon connection and stored on the Internet using a specific server, site storage, cloud storage or a separate cell with a multi-signature. Some copy addresses, linking to desktop or mobile wallets, which allows you to use the account on multiple devices at once.

The main disadvantage: the third-party resource where the keys are stored can gain access to the wallet. The security of the currency will also be at risk in the event of a malfunction of the client site or a cyber attack.

Hardware devices

The most reliable and safe wallets are:

  • Ledger Nano;
  • DigitalBitbox;
  • Trezor;
  • KeepKey.

Suitable for long-term storage of large quantities of assets.

A hardware wallet is physical electronic device in the form of a flash drive. Provides “cold” storage of cryptocurrencies in an isolated protected environment (safe). To access the tools, you need to connect it to a PC, tablet or smartphone. The private key, which is used to sign transactions, is built into the wallet, so it cannot be hacked via the network. If the hardware wallet is lost or damaged, the owner will be able to regain access to their currency using a PIN code. The main disadvantage is the high cost of the device.

Which wallet should I choose to store Bitcoin and other crypto coins?

Each type of wallet has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are focused on security, others on convenience or privacy. Do right choice the goal you are pursuing will help. Suitable for investments and savings hardware wallet, for purchases – a mobile version, and for daily transactions it is more convenient to use an online wallet. You can research the value of all cryptocurrencies, such as Ethereum or other currencies, and choose which one you want to purchase and where you will store it.

What should be the “correct” cryptocurrency wallet?

To make using your wallet as convenient and safe as possible, you should pay attention to 3 main criteria before registering it.

  1. Multiple currency account. Allows you to manage various cryptocurrencies from one wallet.
  2. Fast conversion. Exchange of supported coins should be carried out instantly, according to favorable exchange rate(to the ruble or to the dollar) and without commissions, you can track it on our website.
  3. Safety. High security standards are ensured by encrypted SSL connection via HTTPS protocol, trusted IP address and multi-level authorization.

There are wallets that combine all of the above parameters.

How to create a cryptocurrency wallet

The registration procedure depends on the selected type of wallet. Designing an online wallet will be significantly different from creating a desktop version. Once the choice is made, you just need to follow the recommendations of the resource that provides the appropriate option.

To register a local wallet you will need to download special application, program or zipped file with system data to your PC. Then follow the instructions for installing and activating the wallet (usually it’s enough to check the required boxes and click the “Next” button). After installation software and restart the PC, you can launch the wallet. Many of these versions have analogues for mobile.

Cold wallet registration procedure more complex, described in detail in the video:

Online wallet registration quite simple and carried out in stages:

  • Step #1. Go to the selected site and open the “Wallet” tab. Then click the “Registration” button.
  • Step #2. In the window that opens, provide your personal information – email address and password.
  • Step #3. Confirm your registration or account via e-mail (via link) or via SMS (via code).
  • Step #4. Go to the site again and log into your wallet.

  • Step #5. In the menu or personal account, make settings in accordance with individual requirements.
  • Step #6. Find the “Security Center” section or its equivalent and activate multi-level identification for login, confirm a trusted IP address, or perform other actions to protect your wallet from unauthorized access.

  • Step #7. If necessary, create a Bitcoin wallet. As a rule, a form opens with fields that need to be filled in (sometimes you need to enter a captcha - letters and numbers from the picture).



After this, a “mnemonic” key will open to restore access, which must be copied or rewritten and stored in a safe place.

How to use an online wallet

You can top up your account balance via Personal Area. For example, when you click the “replenish Bitcoin wallet” or “receive” button, a window opens with your wallet number. You can copy this address and use it as data to transfer funds, or give the code to the person who is going to send you money.

To send funds, simply enter the wallet number to which the payment is made, indicate the amount and purpose of the transfer.


Where can I register a cryptocurrency wallet?

Before you open a Bitcoin wallet, it is important to choose a reliable site or exchange with a good reputation. Some offer several types of wallets and provide supporting information to help you understand the capabilities of each.

We list the TOP 5 popular sites offering cryptocurrency wallets and provide a video for easy registration on each of them:

  • bitcoin.org – instructions for creating a Bitcoin wallet;
  • exodus.io – video: exodus wallet;
  • electrum.org – video instructions for creating an electrum wallet;
  • exmo.me – video instructions for creating a wallet.
  • coinbase.com – video instructions for creating a BTC wallet.

Be aware of the risks associated with online wallets, and if possible, do not get carried away with working with them, but get a hardware device. The final choice depends only on you - you need to be guided by your own needs and the purpose of the wallet.

Precautionary measures

A cryptocurrency wallet can be regarded as a regular wallet with money, but it has advanced features that increase the level of risk. Simple rules will help prevent the loss of your own savings.

  1. Keep large amounts during long term only permissible on wallets that provide full control over the private key, and, accordingly, over digital assets. This will help protect funds from fraud and cyber attacks.
  2. Create a unique and fairly complex password. The main thing is to write it down (so as not to forget) and not tell anyone. Otherwise, there is a risk of losing access to the wallet and the funds stored on it.
  3. Encrypt information and make a backup copy of private keys. In case of reinstallation of the PC or force majeure situations, this will help to quickly restore access to the wallet.
  4. Store private keys on an offline device that cannot be hacked via the Internet.
  5. Use reliable antivirus software and update it regularly. This will prevent leakage of personal data that hackers can use to crack passwords.
  6. Register multiple accounts (wallets) various types, which will allow you to diversify your funds and choose the most suitable option.

If you use your wallet wisely and do not neglect safety precautions, the risk of losing funds will be minimized.

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 remedy against hacking - caution, which implies the use of trusted sites and secure software, as well as reliable crypto wallets.

What are crypto wallets?

There are several types of wallets.

Eat "hot" (or "fast"), which allow you to send money instantly from anywhere - if only you had access to the Internet. Eat “cold” (“slow”), which cannot be easily approached, and they are, of course, more reliable.

  • All online wallets, wherever they are located - on individual sites or, for example, on exchanges.
  • Mobile wallets. Allows access from smartphones and tablets.
  • "Paper" wallets. They are generated on special websites, saved and, as a rule, printed in the form of a QR code, which 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 represents physical device the size of a flash drive and on which there is no data except information about the cryptocurrency.

How do 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 cryptographic protection Most wallets, including those from Google Play, are very low.

This is explained by the small number of professionals in the crypto industry who can create a well-protected application, and by the capabilities of the applications themselves: fast and light 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 vulnerabilities of medium severity are 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 on the site randomly. Both the address and the key are presented in both alphanumeric and QR code form. Users are assured that the private key is stored only by the owner, but in practice there is no evidence of this. Not to mention that scanning a QR code with a tablet or smartphone also creates certain vulnerabilities, since the key ends up on devices without protection.

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

“Thick” ones are considered more reliable, since another server is an invisible phenomenon, it is not known how protected it is and it is not known who is serving it. On the other hand, server owners have the opportunity to protect them well - better than ordinary users do with their computers. Therefore, it is not servers that are hacked more often, but individual accounts, and then The user's and developer's fault may be the same.

For example, the developer left a vulnerability (small, otherwise hackers would hack everyone, not just individual users), but the user himself gave the hacker access to it. Either he downloaded software with viruses, or surfed the Internet without an antivirus and firewall, or disabled any protection to “work faster,” or otherwise took the issue of security lightly.

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

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

It is much more difficult to hack the wallet of such a user, although the service itself may 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 creating 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, the user only needs this phrase to gain access to their data.

Security leaders are considered hardware crypto wallets. But relatively few people use them - not least because they cost about $100-200, when everything else is 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, that it includes 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 is focused on maximum ease of transfers, which are carried out on the basis of the EOS platform. It operates on iOS and Android and maintains 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, working on the basis of EOS and the ERC20 standard from Ethereum. Paytomat also has its own cryptocurrency - PTI.
  • Holy Transaction- 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 convenient wallets for beginners due to its clear interface. But there is no HD wallet technology; the keys to the wallets are stored on servers. One of the advantages is the presence of two-factor authentication and the ability to come up with a complex password. However, for now Holy Transaction It works as usual, and there are practically no reviews about the unavailability of funds.
  • Coinomi- mobile service, and only for Android. Multicurrency (more than 40 cryptocurrencies) and multilingual (Russian available). The code is open, which indicates the developers' willingness to cooperate. There is HD wallet. Private keys are stored by the user, but two-factor authentication absent. Although malicious file, who gets onto a smartphone and manages to get the keys to the wallets, will most likely be able to steal confirmation codes, so there’s not much point in it.
  • Exodus has been in the top for a long time - and for good reason. This multi-currency “thin” desktop wallet, which supports internal currency exchange thanks to integration with the ShapeShift exchange. It has an intuitive and stylish interface that surpasses the look of other wallets. It is distinguished by technical support in the person of the creators, who are ready to help a beginner and listen with interest to suggestions experienced users. Assumes presence 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, because... third party utilities tend to be not completely safe).
  • Electrum- 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 open source. Convenient for those who require increased anonymity, since it works without problems when connected to Tor networks, through a proxy, etc. Involves creating a complex password and seed key. Private keys are controlled by the user, regardless of whether he uses a desktop or mobile wallet. Quite reliable, few negative reviews, technical support actively contacts users.
  • Jaxx- a multi-currency wallet that has both desktop and mobile versions. Partly reminiscent of Exodus: there is an internal currency exchange thanks to the integration of ShapeShift, a convenient and intuitive interface. Seed phrase available. The positives 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, user password consists of 4 digits. But the most important thing is that money is constantly disappearing from wallets. The issue was covered in the media, and there were many messages about the same thing on crypto forums. Owners and technical support refrain from giving direct answers.
  • Blockchain- the most popular online wallet for bitcoins, has proven itself to be quite reliable. But there are delays in sending funds and other failures. Technical support eliminates them, but with moderate efficiency. Blockchain supports two-factor authentication and involves creating a strong password and seed key. Synchronization with a smartphone is possible via a QR code, which makes your personal wallet more vulnerable.
  • Bitcoin Core- the oldest wallet for bitcoins, which is close to official status, as it was 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 random access memory. Supports Russian language from OS - Windows, Linux, Mac. Network hacking, address substitution and other troubles are practically excluded, so it is considered one of the safest places to store bitcoins, allowing you to send them quickly and seamlessly. In fact, with speed, everything is not so good, since synchronization of the blockchain takes a long time, many novice users are confused by the cumbersomeness and volume of information. But the user is the full owner of all information, and, in fact, can lose his crypto money only through oversight.
  • BitAddress- one of the most popular options paper wallets. The wallet address and key can be generated by randomly moving the mouse across the screen. Obviously, they may be at the disposal of the site owners. “Advanced” users can copy the site to a flash drive and run it from under virtual machine with the Internet turned off. It's more safe way, but only until the first transaction that requires an Internet connection. Not to mention that a lot depends on the software with which the translation will be made. There are few negative reviews about the service, but few people 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 on the same principle. Users have complaints about the durability of the display, otherwise negative reviews There is little information about the physical equipment of the device. There are three risks, like other hardware wallets: theft, substitution of addresses during a transaction, loss or distribution of the seed key. All the risks are relatively low. You can get rid of the first one 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 also the application for Chrome, recommended by the manufacturers, has also not failed yet. As for the seed key, it should be stored 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 on iOS and Android. Multicurrency (16 crypto and 4 regular currencies, including ruble and hryvnia). There is two-factor authentication with confirmation by e-mail or phone, a password is required. Another interesting thing: according to reviews, there are many cases when the transaction was confirmed, but the money never appeared in the recipient’s wallet. Technical support does not solve these problems, despite their prevalence. So it makes sense to talk about imperfect defense, but it is not a fact that it is purely technical - the human factor is also quite likely.

There are a lot of wallets now, but ease of access, convenience, and 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 always and everywhere, or risk money.

Use of cryptocurrencies on network market it didn't start yesterday. Many users have long and successfully converted their own savings or earned the electronic equivalent of money in the traditional sense on the relevant exchanges.

Like any other financial structure, a multicurrency needs secure storage- wallet. The choice should fall not only on a convenient system for transferring cryptocoins and paying for business services, but also one that is protected from hacker attacks and other interventions. How to choose a reliable cryptocurrency wallet from among the existing ones is described below.

Before choosing the most reliable cryptocurrency wallet, it is important to know the basics of the system - what it is and how it works. For beginners who first encountered the concept of cryptocurrency, the circulation of funds that are not such in the traditional sense naturally seems strange. Many refuse to have unknown system However, experts say that such a currency is the future. If so, it is important to learn how to manage it now.

What is cryptocurrency?

Everyone knows about Bitcoin - coins that constantly rise or fall in exchange rate to a certain national currency (in this case, the dollar). Therefore, it is a digital monetary unit, calculated in coins. They deal with it in the same way as with ordinary money, but only in virtual network. Cryptocurrency is backed by banknotes in traditional form, which are entered into electronic payment system via terminals and then converted at the current rate.

The convenient form allows you to carry out any operations with accounts, without involving a large number of paper banknotes. Bitcoin or any other crypto coins are not associated with national currencies or government systems. Its value is assessed strictly in accordance with the exchange rate of the dominant world currencies. Today, there are several thousand types of “coins”, however, half of them should not be trusted - 50% of the total number were created by scammers to commit illegal financial transactions.

What are the advantages of trading cryptocurrency?

Demand electronic money, which is essentially an encrypted code, has the following advantages:

  • Anonymity of financial transactions. Transfers, payments, any transactions - everything happens through electronic wallet With specific number. No one is identifying the owner.
  • Decentralized management. That is, there is no control from the state or other financial institutions. Rather, on the contrary, the gradual increase in circulation of cryptocurrency in the future will be able to dictate its terms.
  • It follows from the last point that cryptocurrency is not affected by the inflation of national money - its quantity is strictly limited.
  • Security. There is no possibility to fake the cryptocurrency code or copy it.

It is possible to perform any operations with “coins”. Already now they are cashed in at certain points, used to pay for goods and services, traded and exchanged on exchanges.

What is a cryptocurrency wallet?

So, if there is a cryptocurrency, a system is required to store it. That is, to ensure the protection of access codes. Accordingly, a digital wallet is a program that protects savings, allows you to carry out various operations and withdraw earned “coins”. How does it work? To complete transactions, it is important that the private access code (key or token) matches the public one. After a transaction is completed, a corresponding entry appears in the transaction log. Physical transfer cryptocurrency is not happening.

Before choosing the most reliable cryptocurrency wallet of 2018, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the types of digital code money storages. This:

  • Wallets for PC. The advantage of such storage is the personal ownership of the device - only the owner has access to the codes. However, the danger of infecting the system with a virus jeopardizes any savings - losing a key always means financial ruin.
  • Wallets for mobile devices. Installed on the owner's phone as an application. They are very limited in functionality, however, financial transactions are also possible with them. The structure of the system is simplified, and therefore the security is lower.
  • Hardware wallets. Arranged in the form of separate media compatible with system gadgets. They are considered safe because the data is not in network circulation - to complete a transaction, the owner connects the device to the Internet one time and then disconnects it.
  • Cloud or online wallets. They can be accessed by any device with network access. The advantage is ease of use, however, there is a significant disadvantage - private keys are controlled by third parties, therefore, the risk of theft is high.

There are also “paper” wallets. They are called so because of the printed keys generated by the system. The operation is simple - transactions are made to the wallet address printed in public access. The system is reliably protected.

Top 10 Reliable Cryptocurrency Wallets of 2018 – Review of the Most Reliable

Online storage facilities are divided into hybrid and traditional types. The first ones involve separate storage of the keys to the wallet signed by the owner, the second ones use backups keys whose originals are stored on closed servers. Admins and developers have no access to them full access– requires multi-signatures of both parties. Among the recommended options, the following wallets are more reliable:

  • Blockchain. The most popular and sought-after service for storing and managing cryptocurrency. It is easy to operate. A two-level protection system - SMS code and 2FA indicates the reliability of the operator. The user gains access to his own wallet after opening the website of the same name. Among the advantages are a Russified interface, applications compatible with Android devices and iOS, as well as the ability to export encrypted keys.
  • Coinbase. The company provides users not only electronic storage, but also used as payment gateway for retail sale of cryptocurrency. Among the advantages are the possibility of direct transactions with cryptocurrencies (sale, purchase, exchange), payment for household services and goods, compatibility with mobile devices and an increased degree of security using 2FA. The system is used in 24 countries around the world. The peculiarity of this wallet is related to the provision of bank account information for withdrawal of funds, which is considered by some users as a disadvantage.
  • BitGo. Many users rate this cryptocurrency wallet as the most reliable. Why? Firstly, the security level of the wallet is very high - two signatures are required for a transaction, the keys are stored on the platform and server, and before you can start using the funds, you need to undergo two-step authentication. Secondly, the funds are not only protected, but also insured, which opens up wide opportunities for entrepreneurs. Disadvantages – lack of interface in Russian and mobile applications.
  • GreenAddress is a Russian-language project that has gained popularity in Russia. It has earned the status of a reliable cryptocurrency wallet for the following reasons: special protection– transfers are made to new generated addresses after each transaction. The user can set a transfer limit. The ability to export cryptocurrency to social network users, friends and family by phone number or email address. Among others, 2FA protection, PIN code, and HD wallet seed (using a secret phrase) have been implemented.
  • Hive. The wallet supports the popular cryptocurrencies Litecoin and Bitcoin. Simplicity of management consists in entering a key phrase, which is why the reliability of protection is very relative - you will have to learn it by heart and protect it from unauthorized access. However, the wallet is in demand precisely because of this feature - there is no need to export private keys.
  • Xapo. A good online wallet for offline protection of cryptocurrency - coins are stored on servers not connected to the Internet. The location of the defense center is interesting - it is a military bunker in Switzerland. His safety is monitored satellite system X-Ray. Other advantages - cryptocurrency management is possible with any device (mobile phones, PCs, other gadgets). The system allows you to pay for goods and services, as well as make other financial transactions around the world.
    Cons – lack modern means cryptocurrency wallet protection (documents and number required mobile phone), therefore, there is no question of any anonymity. There is also no Russified interface - because of this, users in our country cannot use the system en masse.
  • StrongCoin. The “legislator” of the rules for storing cryptocurrency – the service was organized in 2011. Popular due to the following benefits: creation unlimited quantity addresses, direct purchases of cryptocurrency directly to the wallet, a clear interface, activities of affiliate programs - the user receives a commission from attracting referrals. Minus - there is no Russified version of the wallet.
  • Electrum. The most flexible cryptocurrency wallet with multi-level protection. It has a multi-profile settings system that provides the user with comfortable work online. Most suitable for the owner of a cryptocurrency who has devoted himself entirely to working with digital assets. It is also used as a conference tool for many people, so as not to miss a single unnecessary transaction and always know the date and address of sending cryptocurrency.
  • Exodus. A reliable multi-currency wallet for storing all types of cryptocurrencies. Many users note its poor design, but this is not the main thing. Many advantages more than offset this disadvantage. For example: the encrypted key is shown to the owner to consolidate visual memory and is synchronously sent by email - thus, it is impossible to forget the digital code. Also, the wallet interface is functionally diverse - a visual diagram for holding business conferences, setting any password length, Support at any time of the day. Transaction processing fee – 0.0003 BTC. For complete privacy the service uses ProtonMail.
  • JAXX. One of the most reliable cryptocurrency multi-wallets. Allows you to easily switch from one view to another - tokens are pre-displayed in tabs open system. There is a transaction history, copying the Bitcoin rate to the clipboard for transactions between partners and referrals. The style of the digital wallet shows the status of the owner. Wallet developers are constantly looking for new ideas for functionality.
    Cons: reservation of cryptocurrency to pay transaction fees. It is logical to assume that the more currency is stored, the higher the transaction fees, even if the rate is fixed. Using a four-digit password - unlike alphabetic and digital codes of any length, it, of course, loses to other systems, since it will not be difficult for experienced crackers to find the right key.

To select a suitable wallet, the user must answer several questions - the nature of the transactions ( one-time transfers or Full time job with cryptocurrencies), one or more types digital coins, limited (home) or wide access.

Described helpful information given in a general way - these are the advantages and disadvantages of popular cryptocurrency wallets. Convenience of working with everyone digital service are assessed over the course of operation of a reliable cryptocurrency wallet.