The Bitcoin wallet, the digital place where Bitcoins are stored, is an integral component for anybody who actually wants to own some cryptocurrency. For those who are just getting into the field, it can be overwhelming with the amount of terminology that comes with bitcoin, but we’ll show you everything you need to know to use a Bitcoin wallet.

The Bitcoin Market

Over the course of 2019 the Bitcoin market cap has grown to $165 billion, an increase of 32 percent from the beginning of the year. Since 2009, Bitcoin has gone from an uncertain digital money model to a real opportunity for people to make money. It is also becoming an ever-more useful way to transmit stored value—like any other form of “money”—across the Internet.

What is a Bitcoin Wallet

Much like a real wallet, a bitcoin wallet is a location in which you store your coins. Bitcoin wallets can be physical or digital, depending on the medium. Wallets come in four general forms: desktop, web, mobile, and hardware. There are advantages and disadvantages to each, and we will go into further details below.

Desktop Wallets

Desktop wallets are programs installed on your computer that allow you to access your bitcoins. They are known to be more secure than online wallets. But given their need for a constant internet connection, they are still susceptible to attacks. There are a variety of different desktop wallets. Below, we will list a few of the most popular ones.

• • Bitcoin Core Wallet – This is the original wallet that started it all, and it is maintained by the consortium that nominally oversees Bitcoin.

• • Atomic Wallet – Has support for around 300 currencies. Has instant exchange, key encryption, and 24/7 support. For coins supported, the “atomic swap” feature allows users to switch one coin for another.

• • Electrum – An open source desktop wallet with encryption. Known for being fast and using servers that index the blockchain

• • Exodus – A wallet known for an easily understandable user interface. Has a live portfolio, a built-in exchange, and 24/7 support.

• • CoPay – A multisignature, open-source desktop wallet. This also has a mobile application, or mobile wallet, which we explain in detail below.

Web Wallet

Web wallets emphasize the convenience of accessing your bitcoins from any device with an internet connection. By utilizing your browser, your wallet is built directly into the webpage of your chosen provider. This increases the level of convenience in accessing your bitcoins from anywhere, as you do not need to download an application. However, there are greater exposures as a result. Many web wallets run on online exchanges. When these exchanges shut down, these companies still have access to your private keys. Less reputable companies can take these keys and run. Stick with those who are well known if you choose web wallets. Below is a list of popular options.

• • Coinbase – a web-based bitcoin platform known to support a great deal of coins and have a solid user interface. Coinbase offers a wallet, and it also operates one of the larger Bitcoin exchanges where you can buy and sell Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

• • Circle – A web wallet that boasts over 8 million customers and $200 billion in bitcoin currencies.

• • Blockchain – An incredibly popular web wallet from a company that has raised more than $70 million from investors.. The Blockchain wallet has the advantage of being a web-based wallet, but one where you hold your own so called digital keys. That increases security, while also putting more responsibility on maintaining your own security on your shoulders.

• • Strongcoin – A hybrid wallet that encrypts your keys within Strongcoin’s servers. This has a heavy emphasis on security, and automatically backs up your security.

Mobile Wallets

Mobile bitcoin wallets allow you to download an application onto your phone to manage your keys. Much like your desktop wallets, you will need to have an internet connection to purchase and manage your keys. Mobile devices allow you to take your Bitcoins with you and pay for something in a face-to-face transaction. As a result of this focus on convenience, they rely on simplified payment verification. This allows the user to only download a portion of the blockchain. However, the convenience gives multiple opportunities for thieves to take your coins. If this is the option for you, here are some mobile wallets to consider.

• • Atomic Wallet – Atomic Wallet’s decentralized emphasis allows it to be on mobile and desktop. It is currently available for Google Play and the App Store.

• • FreeWallet – Includes built-in exchanges for over 30 currencies, ability to pay for more coins via the application, and support for 13 languages.

• • Jaxx – Also has a desktop application variant. Known for not requiring a login or verification. Acts more as a cold storage system until you need to access your keys, providing an edge to security.

• • Mycelium – An open source wallet that boasts having high marks on Google Play. Known for having a cold storage option and developed by a team of engineers.

Hardware Wallets

Hardware wallets are the most secure option amongst all we have mentioned today. These wallets are pure cold storage, meaning that the keys needed to access your bitcoin are stored on this device with limited access to the internet. As a result, they sacrifice many of the convenient features coming with desktop, web, and mobile wallets. However, many of these devices are virtually hack-proof, though remember that’s an ever-shifting. Even if they were to steal your hardware wallet, many wallets require a PIN for further access. This emphasizes the importance of multi-factor authentication. Below are some good examples of hardware wallets you can choose.

• • Trezor Wallets – Trezor make a variety of premium wallets that include touch screen features. Many wallets have 24-word backup passphrase, a simple two-button interface, and a simple screen that allows you to see your bitcoin information.

• • Ledger Wallets – Ledger makes two major wallets: the Nano S and the Nano X. The Nano X has more features which include Bluetooth functionality. This is an attempt to combine the convenience of mobile access with the security of wallets. The S is the cheaper of the two options. The Ledger also boasts a custom operating system.

• • KeepKey – KeepKey supports the world’s leading cryptocurrencies, with over 40 among its selection. The company behind KeepKey has developed its own interface for viewing bitcoin information. It also supports a large display, which limits your need to connect this to a computer.

Other Type of Wallets

The four wallets mentioned above are the most common wallets used. However, other wallets have their advantages. These are outside of the normal four categories given the unique features behind these wallets and tend to be less popular.

Paper Wallets

Paper wallets are a type of cold storage that allows you to store your bitcoin data onto a literal piece of paper. These combine your public keys and private keys into two QR codes that can be scanned to acquire those keys during a sale. From a network security standpoint, these are the most secure wallet. You cannot hack a piece of paper. However, if the QR code is damaged, it is difficult to re-acquire those keys. You can generate these codes using websites like BitAddress, but be sure to not save the QR code as an image on your computer.

Physical Bitcoins

Much like hardware and paper wallets, literal “bitcoins” are generally shaped like a coin and meant to provide cold storage for your public and private keys. Generally, these physical coins, or sometimes cards, contain a pre-fixed amount of bitcoin. Most of these coins have a tamper-proof seal to prove that the coin has not been accessed. They are less susceptible to damage than paper wallets but are very limited compared to hardware wallets. These are built more for the collector’s value than anything. Also, one of the more popular physical coins that were sold, Casascius, was shut down by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network for printing currency without registering at the state and federal level.

What About Banks?

Currently, there are no major banks that take and store cryptocurrency. Some banks may find security-related issues to be too complicated; other banks may not view the currency as a viable option—or even as a threat to their traditional business model; and many banks can’t be bothered to extend out from their primary focus. In any case, utilizing a debit card to access your bitcoins from a major banking institution will still take some time. While major institutions do not recognize bitcoins, smaller groups have taken the mantle. WBB, or World Bit Bank, has taken the mantle by acquiring various banks around the world to provide banking services in crypto form. These include crypto loans, usage of debit cards, and the exchange feature offered by other banks.

Which Option is For Me?

Based on our review, each wallet has a series of advantages and disadvantages. Each person will need to utilize the information provided in this article to decide which one is the best option for them. For the ultimate in convenience and security, using a combination of the big four would be best for your flexibility. Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when making your decision.

• • Cold storage is important – For the most secure experience, you will need to take advantage of cold storage wallets. It is cheaper to choose paper wallets, but you will have to be very careful to not damage it. Consider investing in a hardware wallet, for a combination of safety and security.

• • What crypto do you have? – When buying software, hardware, or downloading an application, be sure you know the currency they support. Currently, there are more than 1000 different types of cryptocurrencies, and that is a heavy underestimation. If you plan on branching out, find something with strong support.

• • What is your Operating System – With mobile devices or computers, you may have a couple of options for OS. Each OS has vulnerabilities to malware and viruses you want to be aware of. In any situation, be sure that your virus definitions are up-to-date. Also, the available software is fairly limited for those who have Linux.

• • Virtual exchanges are risky – Going back to our strong emphasis on security, it is best to limit the use of your keys to when you need to use them. Many online exchanges do not have ample security to handle malware attacks. Keeping your keys on an exchange exposes them to risk. Also, smaller exchanges have been known to close and take the keys of their users.

Final Notes

For people who are breaking into bitcoins, it can be a bit intimidating to get into the field. Much like your day-to-day job, where you keep your money is important. For cryptocurrency enthusiasts, these wallets act as your bank, your exchange, and your literal currency. By being aware of the strengths and weaknesses of these wallets, you will be able to make an informed decision on what best suits you.