Which electronic wallet is better for cryptocurrency? Review of the best multicurrency wallets for storing cryptocurrency

Which electronic wallet is better for cryptocurrency? Review of the best multicurrency wallets for storing cryptocurrency

27.08.2021

The use of cryptocurrencies in the online market did not start yesterday. Many users have been successfully converting their own savings for a long time or earning the electronic equivalent of money in the traditional sense on the corresponding exchanges.

As with any other financial structure, a multicurrency needs a reliable storage - a wallet. The choice should fall not only on a convenient system for transferring crypto coins and paying for services in the business environment, but also 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, it naturally seems strange that the circulation of funds is not such in the traditional sense. Many refuse to deal with an unknown system, however, experts say that the future belongs to such a currency. If so, learning how to manage it is important now.

What is cryptocurrency?

Everyone has heard of Bitcoin - coins that constantly take off or fall at the rate of a certain national currency (in this case, it is the dollar). Therefore, it is a digital currency, calculated in a coin (English Coin - a coin). They treat it in the same way as with ordinary money, but only in a virtual network. The cryptocurrency is secured with banknotes in the traditional form, which are deposited into the electronic payment system using terminals and then converted at the current rate.

A convenient form allows you to carry out any transactions with accounts, without involving a large number of paper banknotes. Bitcoin or any other crypto coins are not linked to national currencies or government systems. Its value is estimated strictly in accordance with the exchange rate of the dominant world currencies. Today there are several thousand names of "coins", however, half should not be trusted - 50% of the total number were created by fraudsters to carry out illegal financial transactions.

What are the advantages of cryptocurrency turnover?

The demand for electronic money, in fact, representing an encrypted code, is explained by the following advantages:

  • Anonymity of financial transactions. Transfers, payments, any transactions - everything happens through an electronic wallet with a specific number. Nobody establishes the identity of the owner.
  • Decentralized governance. That is, there is no control by the state or other financial structures. Rather, on the contrary, the gradual increased circulation of cryptocurrency in the future will be able to dictate its terms.
  • From the last point it follows that the cryptocurrency is not affected by inflation of national money - its quantity is strictly limited.
  • Security. There is no possibility to forge the cryptocurrency code or copy it.

Any operations can be performed with "coins". Already now they are cashed out at certain points, they pay for goods and services, they trade and exchange on stock 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, allowing you to carry out various operations and withdraw the earned "coins". How does it work? For transactions, it is important that the private access code (key or token) matches the public one. After the transaction is completed, a corresponding entry appears in the transaction log. There is no physical transfer of cryptocurrency.

Before choosing the most reliable cryptocurrency wallet in 2018, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the types of digital storage of code money. It:

  • PC wallets. The advantage of such storage is in the personal ownership of the device - only the owner has access to the codes. However, the danger of a virus infecting the system jeopardizes any savings - the loss of 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 possible with them. The structure of the system is simplified, hence the safety is lower.
  • Hardware wallets. Arranged as separate media compatible with system gadgets. They are considered safe, since the data is not in network circulation - to complete a transaction, the owner once connects the device to the Internet and then disconnects it.
  • Cloud or online wallets. They can be accessed by any device with a network connection. The advantage in ease of use, however, 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 named so because of the printed keys generated by the system. The work is simple - transactions are made to the wallet address printed in the public domain. The system is well protected.

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

Online storage is divided into hybrid and traditional types. The former imply separate storage of the keys from the wallet with the signature of the owner, the latter use backup copies of the keys, whose originals are stored on closed servers. Admins and developers do not have full access to them - they require multisignature of both parties. Among the recommended options, the following wallets are more reliable:

  • Blockchain. The most popular and demanded service for storing and managing cryptocurrency. Differs in simplicity of work. Two-level security system - SMS-code and 2FA speaks about the reliability of the operator. The user gets access to his own wallet after opening the site of the same name. Among the pluses - a Russified interface, applications compatible with Android and iOS devices, as well as the ability to export encrypted keys.
  • Coinbase. The company provides users with not only electronic storage, but is also used as a payment gateway for the retail sale of cryptocurrency. Among the advantages is 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 for 2FA. The system is used in 24 countries around the world. The peculiarity of this wallet is related to the provision of bank account data 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 on the server, before using the funds, authentication is required in two stages. Secondly, the funds are not only protected, but also insured, which opens up ample opportunities for entrepreneurs. Disadvantages - the lack of an 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 the transfer limit. The ability to export cryptocurrency to users of social networks, friends and relatives 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. Ease of management consists in entering a passphrase, which is why the reliability of protection is very relative - it will have to be learned by heart and protected 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 cryptocurrency protection - coins are stored on servers that are not connected to the Internet. Interestingly, the location of the defense center is a military bunker in Switzerland. Its security is monitored by the X-Ray satellite system. Other advantages - cryptocurrency management is possible with any devices (mobile phones, PCs, other gadgets). The system allows you to pay for goods and services, as well as perform other financial transactions around the world.
    Cons - the lack of modern means of protecting the cryptocurrency wallet (documents and a mobile phone number are required), therefore, there is no question of any anonymity. Also, there is no Russified interface - because of this, users of our country cannot use the system in large quantities.
  • StrongCoin. The "legislator" of the rules for storing cryptocurrency - the service was organized in 2011. It is popular because of the following advantages: the creation of an unlimited number of addresses, direct purchases of cryptocurrency directly to the wallet, an intuitive interface, the activities of partner programs - the user receives a commission from attracting referrals. Minus - there is no Russified version of the wallet.
  • Electrum. The most flexible cryptocurrency wallet in terms of functionality with multi-level protection. It has a multi-profile system of settings that provide the user with a convenient work in the network. Most suitable for a cryptocurrency owner who has fully dedicated himself 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 the cryptocurrency.
  • Exodus. A reliable multicurrency wallet for storing all types of cryptocurrencies. Many users note its poor design, but this is not the main thing. Many advantages overlap this disadvantage with interest. For example: the encrypted key is shown to the owner to consolidate the visual memory and is synchronously sent to e-mail - 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 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 type to another - tokens are pre-displayed in the tabs of the open system. There is a history of transactions, copying the bitcoin rate to the clipboard for transactions between partners and referrals. The digital wallet style shows the status of the owner. The wallet developers are constantly looking for new ideas for functionality.
    Cons: Reservation of cryptocurrency for payment of transaction fees. It is logical to assume that the more currency is stored, the higher the transaction fee, even if the rate is fixed. Using a four-digit password - unlike alphanumeric 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 choose a suitable wallet, the user must answer several questions - the nature of the transactions (one-time transfers or constant work with cryptocurrencies), one or several types of digital coins, limited (home) or wide access.

The described useful information is given in a general way - these are the advantages and disadvantages of popular cryptocurrency wallets. The convenience of working with each digital service is assessed over the course of the operation of a reliable cryptocurrency wallet.

Having appreciated its advantages, you should also take the time to study the issue of storage, so as not to fall for the bait of scammers and hackers. Most of the incidents of hacking and theft of cryptocurrencies that have happened in the world could have been avoided if the owners of the crypt took security more seriously, which is what we suggest you do. After all, you can never trust your money to anyone. Recently, a very large number of various services have appeared that accept digital coins, store, transfer, exchange, etc. So which wallet for cryptocurrencies should you choose in the end? We will try to help you understand this variety and make the right choice.

So, first you need to understand the fundamental difference between the so-called hot and cold storage of tokens (hot storage and cold storage). What is the essence of these opposite methods:

  1. Hot storage, or as it is also called hot wallet, or online storage - can be described in one word - "online". It includes all Internet wallets that are connected to the network around the clock and give instant access to your funds at any time of the day or night. You can quickly make many transactions with your money, but they are subject to the same risks as all web resources. Although this happens relatively rarely, there is still a chance to catch a virus, become a victim of a hacker attack, a phishing site, or suffer from a server hacking attacked by lovers of easy money. All these risks have not been canceled, nevertheless, this method is used by most people to store small or medium amounts of money.
  2. Cold storage (in other words cold wallet, or offline storage) is a completely offline method. It is the best suited for very wealthy people with huge sums, or just for people who are shaking over their savings, very afraid of losing them. The point is that after receiving funds on a public resource, they hide their private key, which is necessary for withdrawing funds, anywhere except the Internet. For the greatest confidence in the safety of their savings, especially cautious persons stop using their wallet if funds have already been withdrawn from it at least once. That is, if it is lit up on the network, and thus begins to be equated with online storage.

Basically, this article will focus on the hot type of storage of crypto coins, since everything related to the online space refers specifically to it.

When it comes to cold storage, there are different varieties. It can be:

  • paper wallet;
  • USB stick;
  • physical Bitcoin coin;
  • standalone hardware wallet and others.

The advantages of a separate "wallet" include a high level of security due to the use of private keys. You can write the key phrase (seed) not in a digital source, but, for example, on paper or on a device that is not connected to the network, this will guarantee complete security.

Minuses:

  1. Keeping each currency separately is not as convenient as keeping all of them together.
  2. For each currency, there is a separate seed phrase, which must be kept somewhere safe, later you don’t forget where and not lose it, otherwise you will not get access to the money.

Before registering yourself, for example, Bitcoin Wallet, Ethereum Wallet or, say, Electrum Dash, think about whether you can get by with one storage for all digital coins - multicurrency. It can be compared to the usual wallet for paper banknotes, which contains all types of banknotes, with their help you can make various payments on the Internet, transfers, and simply store funds.

It can be used on various devices connected to the network: PC, smartphone, tablet. But the catch is that since these devices are constantly on the network, the seed phrases generated on them, which are the private key, although encrypted with a password, cannot be absolutely secure. Other people can potentially access them via the Internet, so this method is a prime example of hot storage. Some of these wallets are equipped with a multi-signature function that asks for additional confirmation from the owner for withdrawing funds, which slightly increases the degree of security. Still, an online wallet is more suitable for small purchases and short-term transactions, but you should not consider it as a reliable store of savings.

Pros of a web wallet:

  • low percentage of commission for transactions;
  • a large selection of presented cryptocurrencies;
  • a simple and convenient way to store small amounts;
  • it is possible to use several gadgets.

Minuses:

  • protection is not as reliable as possible, since the work is carried out through an intermediary;
  • not the best way to store large amounts.

Some of the most popular representatives of this type of storage are the Russian-language site "Cryptonator", as well as the HolyTransaction and GreenAddress services. Many of the online wallets are also available in versions for PCs or smartphones. More on this below.

Now it is already impossible to imagine life without the constant use of smartphones. With their help, through Android or iOS, you can do so much and, of course, store and spend electronic coins too. Many well-known services release their mobile applications. For example, such as "Cryptonator" and others. As for popular mobile storages, Coinomi can be attributed to them, in which ShapeShift is now integrated - an equally popular exchanger. It is convenient in that it supports a large number of different altcoins. At the moment there are about 60 items. Another advantage is a fairly high level of security. The latest version of the Coinomi app, upon first launch, automatically prompts you to create and save your passphrase. This seed, known only to you, makes your mobile storage highly secure. It also has a fairly simple intuitive interface.

Such repositories are widespread, and there are many good representatives of them. Among them:

  1. Bitcoin Wallet is a pioneer among this type of wallet, which is distinguished by very good protection. It is directly related to the Bitcoin system, has a laconic design and simple, clear functionality. In a word - nothing superfluous, everything you need, for which many bitcoin holders and beginners in this business fell in love.
  2. Breadwallet - will delight the owners of iPhones, as it was created especially for them and satisfies all the needs of users, using secret keys that support privacy. An Android version has also been released.
  3. Airbitz is also suitable for iPhones and Android. It's easy to figure out, and the upside is making backups just in case of fire.
  4. Mycelium - this storage does not lag behind, and even overtakes many of its opponents, also performing backups and providing comfort when using. A wide range of users have already appreciated it.
  5. GreenBits is designed specifically for Android and is compatible with several other Bitcoin wallets such as Ledger and Trezor. Its feature is a multi-signature for additional certification of transactions.

It's a little more complicated here than with Android, since Apple has a bad attitude towards such applications. Although today, iPhone owners can already use many of the functions of mobile storage. Typical representatives of this species:

  1. Copay is one of the most user-friendly iPhone compatible wallets. Be sure to consider this option.
  2. Breadwallet is also one of the leaders in this area, it is easy and pleasant to make transactions with it, while being in full control of your private keys. Open source.
  3. Airbitz - if the previous 2 storages were designed exclusively for iPhones, then Airbitz is suitable for Android. In addition to the simplicity of the interface, its advantage is the creation of backups, which is very convenient.

Another type of storage for crypto coins looks like an extension for your browser. For Firefox and Chrome, one of the most popular is Jaxx. It assumes protection through the introduction of a special seed phrase, which consists of 12 words. It is single, and will fit all your registered wallets with altcoins on them, of which there are currently about a dozen, but in the near future it is planned to expand their diversity. The interface is not complicated, the settings are easy to figure out, and they are very flexible. Another cryptocurrency wallet Jaxx offers a desktop version of its product for Windows and Linux, which we will talk about below.

You can download and install an electronic wallet for cryptocurrencies directly on your computer - the so-called desktop version. As a rule, such versions are multicurrency, for example, Exodus, with a built-in ShapeShift platform. Protection by means of private keys, although the choice of currencies is small - only about a dozen of the most famous ones.

As for the interface, it is not complicated, the controls are clear, the design is beautiful. The Bitcoin Core product provides a good level of protection, as it is quite independent. Electrum can be considered as easier to use compared to the Bitcoin wallet, it runs on Windows, Linux and Mac, supports basic hardware storage, and will be convenient for newbies.

It is a physical storage medium (like a USB drive), but it was created only for storing cryptocurrency. How does he work? You store it in a secluded place of your choice, offline, and then connect it to any device, to a PC or another, and only then can you use your electronic coins. This ensures very good security of your funds, and is ideal for long-term storage, including large amounts.

Even if the device itself is stolen from you, they will not be able to use it, since it has a PIN code on it. If you yourself have lost it - it doesn't matter either. A special recovery code that you have specified in advance will help you recover your data. Even if your PC is hacked by scammers, they will still not find the secret code on it, since all manipulations with the code take place in a secure place - in the hardware wallet itself.

The private key used here is used to sign transactions, and is considered a very secure type of Cold storage. Such storages, as a rule, support not many types of cryptocurrencies - up to 5, but the most popular ones. In this way, it is not scary to preserve your savings.

Some even compare a hardware wallet for cryptocurrencies not just with a safe, but with a special vault in a bank, which is located behind an armored door and protected by many technologies. Of course, the cost of such storage is not small, but you will sleep peacefully, and it will not be difficult to connect such a service.

The most famous hardware wallets can be distinguished:

  1. Trezor - It was released as the very first of its kind. It is very compact and provides functions similar to online devices.
  2. KeepKey is the successor to Trezor, following in his footsteps, but slightly refined, with a few extra features and a larger display.
  3. Ledger Nano S is one of the cheapest, at least in the top three. Apparently for the same reason and very popular.
  4. Ledger hw1 - it can be distinguished as a more budgetary analogue, since it does not have a display, which plays a role in ensuring security.

In principle, for each of the cryptocurrencies it is not necessary to create a separate wallet for yourself. If you use, say, a dozen different tokens, it is much more convenient to store everything in one place, that is, on an exchange that can support up to a hundred names of altcoins. However, it does not provide a complete guarantee of the safety of funds. And it is not for nothing that there is a proverb that you do not need to put all your eggs in one basket, otherwise all may break at once - for which there is a lot of evidence.

Whenever a third party is involved, the risk is inevitable. This is what happened in the recent past with the notorious MtGox exchange, which at that time was one of the largest of its kind, but crashed due to the fact that it was robbed by hackers, and millions of people lost their savings in an instant.

But you can hope that this does not happen again with other exchanges. Recently, the BTC-e exchange has shown itself well, as well as the relatively new EXMO exchange, you can consider this option.

Let's just say, if you do not constantly participate in trading, operating in different currencies, you do not regularly use a large number of various altcoins in your work, then for long-term storage, and especially large amounts, there is no better place than a wallet for cryptocurrencies. There you will be able to fully and completely control your assets, having a private key in your hands.

You have seen that there are a great many storage facilities for cryptocurrency, and it cannot be said that some are unambiguously bad, while the other is obviously suitable for everyone. When choosing your personal assistant, be guided by your personal goals, capabilities and functions that you expect from him. Answer the following questions for yourself:

  1. How often do you shop with Bitcoins?
  2. In what limits do you most often operate?
  3. How popular is cryptocurrency exchange for you?
  4. Do you save large sums for a long time (it makes sense to open a hardware wallet for cryptocurrencies), or are tokens constantly in circulation (then it is convenient to register a free online storage)?

It is possible that you decide to combine several types of "wallets" at once. We wish you to find an option that suits you personally.

Having appreciated its advantages, you should also take the time to study the issue of storage, so as not to fall for the bait of scammers and hackers. Most of the incidents of hacking and theft of cryptocurrencies that have happened in the world could have been avoided if the owners of the crypt took security more seriously, which is what we suggest you do. After all, you can never trust your money to anyone. Recently, a very large number of various services have appeared that accept digital coins, store, transfer, exchange, etc. So which wallet for cryptocurrencies should you choose in the end? We will try to help you understand this variety and make the right choice.

So, first you need to understand the fundamental difference between the so-called hot and cold storage of tokens (hot storage and cold storage). What is the essence of these opposite methods:

  1. Hot storage, or as it is also called hot wallet, or online storage - can be described in one word - "online". It includes all Internet wallets that are connected to the network around the clock and give instant access to your funds at any time of the day or night. You can quickly make many transactions with your money, but they are subject to the same risks as all web resources. Although this happens relatively rarely, there is still a chance to catch a virus, become a victim of a hacker attack, a phishing site, or suffer from a server hacking attacked by lovers of easy money. All these risks have not been canceled, nevertheless, this method is used by most people to store small or medium amounts of money.
  2. Cold storage (in other words cold wallet, or offline storage) is a completely offline method. It is the best suited for very wealthy people with huge sums, or just for people who are shaking over their savings, very afraid of losing them. The point is that after receiving funds on a public resource, they hide their private key, which is necessary for withdrawing funds, anywhere except the Internet. For the greatest confidence in the safety of their savings, especially cautious persons stop using their wallet if funds have already been withdrawn from it at least once. That is, if it is lit up on the network, and thus begins to be equated with online storage.

Basically, this article will focus on the hot type of storage of crypto coins, since everything related to the online space refers specifically to it.

When it comes to cold storage, there are different varieties. It can be:

  • paper wallet;
  • USB stick;
  • physical Bitcoin coin;
  • standalone hardware wallet and others.

The advantages of a separate "wallet" include a high level of security due to the use of private keys. You can write the key phrase (seed) not in a digital source, but, for example, on paper or on a device that is not connected to the network, this will guarantee complete security.

Minuses:

  1. Keeping each currency separately is not as convenient as keeping all of them together.
  2. For each currency, there is a separate seed phrase, which must be kept somewhere safe, later you don’t forget where and not lose it, otherwise you will not get access to the money.

Before registering yourself, for example, Bitcoin Wallet, Ethereum Wallet or, say, Electrum Dash, think about whether you can get by with one storage for all digital coins - multicurrency. It can be compared to the usual wallet for paper banknotes, which contains all types of banknotes, with their help you can make various payments on the Internet, transfers, and simply store funds.

It can be used on various devices connected to the network: PC, smartphone, tablet. But the catch is that since these devices are constantly on the network, the seed phrases generated on them, which are the private key, although encrypted with a password, cannot be absolutely secure. Other people can potentially access them via the Internet, so this method is a prime example of hot storage. Some of these wallets are equipped with a multi-signature function that asks for additional confirmation from the owner for withdrawing funds, which slightly increases the degree of security. Still, an online wallet is more suitable for small purchases and short-term transactions, but you should not consider it as a reliable store of savings.

Pros of a web wallet:

  • low percentage of commission for transactions;
  • a large selection of presented cryptocurrencies;
  • a simple and convenient way to store small amounts;
  • it is possible to use several gadgets.

Minuses:

  • protection is not as reliable as possible, since the work is carried out through an intermediary;
  • not the best way to store large amounts.

Some of the most popular representatives of this type of storage are the Russian-language site "Cryptonator", as well as the HolyTransaction and GreenAddress services. Many of the online wallets are also available in versions for PCs or smartphones. More on this below.

Now it is already impossible to imagine life without the constant use of smartphones. With their help, through Android or iOS, you can do so much and, of course, store and spend electronic coins too. Many well-known services release their mobile applications. For example, such as "Cryptonator" and others. As for popular mobile storages, Coinomi can be attributed to them, in which ShapeShift is now integrated - an equally popular exchanger. It is convenient in that it supports a large number of different altcoins. At the moment there are about 60 items. Another advantage is a fairly high level of security. The latest version of the Coinomi app, upon first launch, automatically prompts you to create and save your passphrase. This seed, known only to you, makes your mobile storage highly secure. It also has a fairly simple intuitive interface.

Such repositories are widespread, and there are many good representatives of them. Among them:

  1. Bitcoin Wallet is a pioneer among this type of wallet, which is distinguished by very good protection. It is directly related to the Bitcoin system, has a laconic design and simple, clear functionality. In a word - nothing superfluous, everything you need, for which many bitcoin holders and beginners in this business fell in love.
  2. Breadwallet - will delight the owners of iPhones, as it was created especially for them and satisfies all the needs of users, using secret keys that support privacy. An Android version has also been released.
  3. Airbitz is also suitable for iPhones and Android. It's easy to figure out, and the upside is making backups just in case of fire.
  4. Mycelium - this storage does not lag behind, and even overtakes many of its opponents, also performing backups and providing comfort when using. A wide range of users have already appreciated it.
  5. GreenBits is designed specifically for Android and is compatible with several other Bitcoin wallets such as Ledger and Trezor. Its feature is a multi-signature for additional certification of transactions.

It's a little more complicated here than with Android, since Apple has a bad attitude towards such applications. Although today, iPhone owners can already use many of the functions of mobile storage. Typical representatives of this species:

  1. Copay is one of the most user-friendly iPhone compatible wallets. Be sure to consider this option.
  2. Breadwallet is also one of the leaders in this area, it is easy and pleasant to make transactions with it, while being in full control of your private keys. Open source.
  3. Airbitz - if the previous 2 storages were designed exclusively for iPhones, then Airbitz is suitable for Android. In addition to the simplicity of the interface, its advantage is the creation of backups, which is very convenient.

Another type of storage for crypto coins looks like an extension for your browser. For Firefox and Chrome, one of the most popular is Jaxx. It assumes protection through the introduction of a special seed phrase, which consists of 12 words. It is single, and will fit all your registered wallets with altcoins on them, of which there are currently about a dozen, but in the near future it is planned to expand their diversity. The interface is not complicated, the settings are easy to figure out, and they are very flexible. Another cryptocurrency wallet Jaxx offers a desktop version of its product for Windows and Linux, which we will talk about below.

You can download and install an electronic wallet for cryptocurrencies directly on your computer - the so-called desktop version. As a rule, such versions are multicurrency, for example, Exodus, with a built-in ShapeShift platform. Protection by means of private keys, although the choice of currencies is small - only about a dozen of the most famous ones.

As for the interface, it is not complicated, the controls are clear, the design is beautiful. The Bitcoin Core product provides a good level of protection, as it is quite independent. Electrum can be considered as easier to use compared to the Bitcoin wallet, it runs on Windows, Linux and Mac, supports basic hardware storage, and will be convenient for newbies.

It is a physical storage medium (like a USB drive), but it was created only for storing cryptocurrency. How does he work? You store it in a secluded place of your choice, offline, and then connect it to any device, to a PC or another, and only then can you use your electronic coins. This ensures very good security of your funds, and is ideal for long-term storage, including large amounts.

Even if the device itself is stolen from you, they will not be able to use it, since it has a PIN code on it. If you yourself have lost it - it doesn't matter either. A special recovery code that you have specified in advance will help you recover your data. Even if your PC is hacked by scammers, they will still not find the secret code on it, since all manipulations with the code take place in a secure place - in the hardware wallet itself.

The private key used here is used to sign transactions, and is considered a very secure type of Cold storage. Such storages, as a rule, support not many types of cryptocurrencies - up to 5, but the most popular ones. In this way, it is not scary to preserve your savings.

Some even compare a hardware wallet for cryptocurrencies not just with a safe, but with a special vault in a bank, which is located behind an armored door and protected by many technologies. Of course, the cost of such storage is not small, but you will sleep peacefully, and it will not be difficult to connect such a service.

The most famous hardware wallets can be distinguished:

  1. Trezor - It was released as the very first of its kind. It is very compact and provides functions similar to online devices.
  2. KeepKey is the successor to Trezor, following in his footsteps, but slightly refined, with a few extra features and a larger display.
  3. Ledger Nano S is one of the cheapest, at least in the top three. Apparently for the same reason and very popular.
  4. Ledger hw1 - it can be distinguished as a more budgetary analogue, since it does not have a display, which plays a role in ensuring security.

In principle, for each of the cryptocurrencies it is not necessary to create a separate wallet for yourself. If you use, say, a dozen different tokens, it is much more convenient to store everything in one place, that is, on an exchange that can support up to a hundred names of altcoins. However, it does not provide a complete guarantee of the safety of funds. And it is not for nothing that there is a proverb that you do not need to put all your eggs in one basket, otherwise all may break at once - for which there is a lot of evidence.

Whenever a third party is involved, the risk is inevitable. This is what happened in the recent past with the notorious MtGox exchange, which at that time was one of the largest of its kind, but crashed due to the fact that it was robbed by hackers, and millions of people lost their savings in an instant.

But you can hope that this does not happen again with other exchanges. Recently, the BTC-e exchange has shown itself well, as well as the relatively new EXMO exchange, you can consider this option.

Let's just say, if you do not constantly participate in trading, operating in different currencies, you do not regularly use a large number of various altcoins in your work, then for long-term storage, and especially large amounts, there is no better place than a wallet for cryptocurrencies. There you will be able to fully and completely control your assets, having a private key in your hands.

You have seen that there are a great many storage facilities for cryptocurrency, and it cannot be said that some are unambiguously bad, while the other is obviously suitable for everyone. When choosing your personal assistant, be guided by your personal goals, capabilities and functions that you expect from him. Answer the following questions for yourself:

  1. How often do you shop with Bitcoins?
  2. In what limits do you most often operate?
  3. How popular is cryptocurrency exchange for you?
  4. Do you save large sums for a long time (it makes sense to open a hardware wallet for cryptocurrencies), or are tokens constantly in circulation (then it is convenient to register a free online storage)?

It is possible that you decide to combine several types of "wallets" at once. We wish you to find an option that suits you personally.

Cryptocurrencies are becoming more and more popular every year. But in order to invest and trade digital currencies, you will need some tools. The cryptocurrency wallet is one of them.

Top coin makers tend to release wallets to store them. But now multicurrency services are becoming very popular among users, on which several cryptocurrencies can be stored at once. This dramatically increases the convenience of managing and controlling your digital assets. These wallets will be discussed further.

This is not a simple wallet that we use to store cash. Cryptocurrency wallets are a kind of bank account that is used to store, receive and send digital currency.

In fact, cryptocurrency wallets do not store the currencies themselves. Because they themselves do not have a physical form, but are records of transactions stored on the blockchain.

A cryptocurrency wallet is a service that records transactions on the blockchain and gives access to their execution.

If we talk about this in more detail, then such a service contains a private key (a digital code that is known only to you and your wallet). When a cryptocurrency is sent to you, a private key signs the public key use right (a public digital code associated with a specific amount of cryptocurrency) for your wallet. It turns out that he stores private and public keys issued to him, thereby allowing him to send / receive coins, and also records these transactions in the blockchain.

Types of multicurrency wallets

# 1. Cryptocurrency exchange accounts

When on some information resources they talk about the places where cryptocurrencies are stored, for some reason they ignore the fact that a large number of users store their cryptoassets on exchanges.

Pros and cons of storing cryptocurrency on exchanges:

Pros:

  • multifunctionality of platforms. When registering on an exchange platform, "wallets" are automatically created on your account to replenish all available cryptocurrencies. This means that you can store coins in the same place where you bought them.
  • the ability to instantly sell / buy. Transactions on exchanges take place in seconds, which means you can always quickly react to any market changes and “exit” or “enter” the right price in time.
  • mobility... You can use your funds at any time. After all, the exchange can be entered from any device, including a mobile one.

Minuses:

  • low degree of protection. Hackers working in this area already have several ways to withdraw funds from user accounts. In the terms of the agreement of some platforms, it is even stated that the exchange is not responsible for the money lost by the trader and does not guarantee the safety of the platform.
  • the administration of the exchange has access to users' funds. In addition to hackers, you need to be wary of the resource owners themselves. There have already been cases in history when the exchange was “closed”, and user funds were safely sent along with the administration to the Canary Islands.
  • verification requirement. Nowadays, many marketplaces require proof of identity using documents and photographs. It takes some time, confirmation from the representatives of the exchange can be expected from several hours to several days. In addition, after this procedure, your transactions will no longer be anonymous.

Conclusion: the cryptocurrency exchange is currently the most unreliable way to store coins. Of course, it is extremely convenient to store it where you bought it. But I highly recommend using exchanges only for trading, and not for long-term storage of large amounts.

No. 2. Online cryptocurrency wallet

When using this storage method, you also do not download any application to your devices, all data is placed on a third-party service. They also make it possible to have several wallets for different cryptocurrencies, carry out conversion and calculate the commission through the service calculators.

Pros and cons of online wallets.

Pros:

  • quick registration. In addition, online storage sites do not require identity verification (verification). This means that you can quickly and easily get such a wallet.
  • high transaction speed. Deposit / withdrawal of funds is carried out in a few clicks and seconds.

Minuses:

  • low degree of protection. The services are owned by third parties, and the keys are hosted on their own servers. That is, you will not be able to fully control the safety of your keys, and therefore your funds.
  • limited functionality. If, in terms of the storage method, online wallets are the same as cryptocurrency exchanges, then the number of functions of the former is much less.

Conclusion: honestly, I don't see much point in storing cryptocurrencies on such online services. The cost of transactions here is an order of magnitude higher than on exchanges, and the quality of work and functionality is much lower. If you need a service for short-term storage of funds, I advise you to opt for exchange platforms.

No. 3. Local (desktop) wallets

They are considered a more reliable option for storing cryptocurrencies than the previous two options. They are a program installed on a PC, through which access to the data of a cryptocurrency account is carried out. Plus, they're incredibly easy to use, with just 4 buttons (balance / I / O / settings) in the interface. Another plus is the absence of a commission, you do not have to pay either for storage or for deposit / withdrawal of coins.

All desktop wallets can be divided into two types:

  • "Thick" or "heavy" local wallets. Programs that install the entire blockchain on your PC and are constantly updated along with the data on the chain. Therefore, on the hard drive, they take up space from 20 to 200 GB.
  • "Thin" or "light" local wallets. Only a small part of the chain is downloaded, most of the information remains stored on third-party servers. But the key file remains on the PC.

Let's analyze each type separately.

Pros and cons of storing with a fat wallet:

Pros:

  • increased reliability. The wallet has complete information about all transactions; it does not need to contact a third-party resource to verify transactions. And the less communication with external online servers, the less the likelihood of a hacker attack.

Minuses:

  • large volume. I already wrote above that the program takes up a large amount of space on the hard disk, the account goes to tens and hundreds of gigabytes. In addition, it will take several hours to install.
  • absolutely not mobile. You can use the thick wallet only on the PC where it was installed.
  • impossibility to recover. If your PC is damaged and keys are lost, no support service can help you restore access to funds.

Pros and cons of storing with a thin wallet:

Pros:

  • small volume. These wallets are called thin wallets because they take up negligible space on your PC. Downloading and installing them takes just a few minutes.
  • mobility. Most thin wallets have mobile apps. But remember that by installing it, you increase the hackers' accessibility.

Minuses:

  • reduced reliability. Since not the entire blockchain is installed on your PC, you use a third-party server to process your transaction. In this case, the likelihood of a hacker attack increases.

Conclusion: desktop wallets are much more reliable than the previous options. But in favor of the thick or thin version, it is better to make a choice, you have to think. Again, I advise you to start from the amount. If you plan to store a large number of coins, and at the same time you will not need to quickly transfer cryptocurrency, choose the first one. If the amount is small and you plan to move it, the second option will suit you better.

No. 4. Mobile wallets

I think the name makes it clear that such "wallets" are applications for mobile gadgets (tablets, smartphones, etc.). They are more suitable for those who use cryptocurrencies as payment for goods and services, for those who need to have funds at hand.


The main advantage of a mobile wallet is that you can use your funds anytime and anywhere.

Cryptocurrency storage mobile apps also don't install the entire blockchain on your device, nor do thin local wallets. In essence, they are very similar. Therefore, I will not dwell on this point in detail.

No. 5. Hardware or cold cryptocurrency wallets

They are separate equipment in the form of a flash drive or display. It connects to the network to make transactions and receive data, the funds are physically stored there. This makes the hardware wallet an order of magnitude more reliable than the rest.

Pros and cons of cryptocurrency hardware wallets

Pros:

  • high level of security. Such a wallet cannot be hacked, it is also protected from malware. When trying to steal a device, an attacker will also not be able to use your funds.

Minuses:

  • price. Hardware wallets, unlike other types, are not free. The cost of the device itself is from 6,000 to 18,000 rubles, plus shipping (on average, it costs 1,500-4,000 rubles to Russia).
  • the likelihood of loss or wear. Due to its small size, this is possible. But this does not mean that in this case you will lose your funds. True, in this case, you will have to order a new wallet and restore access using a key phrase.
  • lack of mobility. The fact that access to funds will be on a flash drive does not mean that you can connect it to any device and use it. The wallet will also be linked to one PC.

Conclusion: a hardware wallet is literally the most reliable way to keep your cryptocurrency safe. The likelihood that funds will be stolen from you is reduced to zero, so if you have a large amount, I advise you to spend money on its acquisition.

4 Important Tips for Safely Storing Cryptocurrency

Council number 1. Update your software.

Stay tuned for updates. They are usually associated with an increase in the level of security, and not only the wallet itself needs to be updated on time, but also the software of the device on which it is stored (computer or mobile phone).

This applies to all wallets.

  • For exchanges check the address of the site itself with precision to each character. Now scammers have appeared on the network who are engaged in so-called phishing. They post on the network a "phishing" link to a popular exchange with a slight change in the characters in the address.

For example, instead of the official website of the Binance exchange with the address binance.com, they leave a link to the address binanc.com. You follow the fake link (outwardly everything is the same as in the original), enter your username and password, the scammers save this data and gain access to your account. You can say goodbye to your funds, they will be able to withdraw them in a few minutes.

  • To install mobile, desktop and online wallets always choose proven platforms. Do not install a wallet whose name you hear for the first time. Download mobile wallets only from the App Store (for Apple devices) and Google Play (for Android).

  • Hardware wallets order only from manufacturers. There are online stores where they can be sold cheaper and delivery is faster, but believe me, it's better to overpay and wait.

The private key is a set of 22-25 words. Do not rely on memory, write down the key on paper and keep several copies in safe places. The computer can fail, the phone can be lost, and the flash drive can break, then only with the help of these words, you can restore access to the funds.

Council number 4. Add additional layers of security.

For exchanges, such an addition is the installation of two-factor verification. For the rest of the wallets, use complex passwords, not the names and dates of birth of grandmothers, dogs, and the like. There are also wallets that offer multi-type transactions, they require another user's permission to complete the transaction.

Top 8 reliable wallets for storing cryptocurrency

# 1. Ledger NanoS

Ledger is rightfully considered one of the leaders in the production of hardware wallets. To date, 1,000,000 devices have already been sold to customers in more than 165 countries.

The device looks like a USB flash drive with a small screen and two buttons.

Nano S can even be used on a PC infected with a virus. And two buttons provide additional protection from hackers, because you need to physically press them to confirm the payment. Add to this all the advantages of hardware wallets and we get one of the most reliable gadgets for storing cryptocurrency.

How to Buy a Ledger NanoS Hardware Wallet for Cryptocurrencies

To buy, go to the manufacturer's official website www.ledger.com, go to the "Nano S" tab and press the "Add to cart" button.

We fill in the delivery information, there is nothing complicated there. True, the store's interface is in English, but I think it's clear what "address" means. As a last resort, you can use a Google translator.

After that, go to the payment window. You can pay with any bank card, Bitcoins, PayPal or Qiwi.

Delivery usually takes about 5-11 business days, but consider that it can take a couple of months.

See the video for the installation guide.

No. 2. Exodus

  • Type of: thin desktop.
  • Supported currencies: 88 cryptocurrencies, including the most popular ones. For a complete and up-to-date list of supported tokens, see the official website.
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS, Linux.
  • Official site: www.exodus.io

Long-established multi-currency wallet. At the moment, only PC versions are available. Exodus impresses with its colorful interface, it also has a bright reporting system and an intuitive menu.

But design is not the only reason why this wallet is worth paying attention to. It also comes with more advanced features than other slim wallets. For example, with Exodus, you can exchange one digital currency for another without any verification and in a matter of seconds.

How to install the Exodus cryptocurrency wallet

To install, go to the official website of the wallet www.exodus.io and press the "download" button.

We select our operating system and wait for the download of the file for installation. Installation takes a few seconds, after which the wallet itself opens, which looks like this.

Unfortunately, the interface of the wallet itself is only in English, but it is quite simple to use it.

See the video below for a guide to using Exodus.

No. 3. Trezor

Another hardware wallet for storing cryptocurrency securely. Trezor is currently almost on par with its direct competitor Ledger Nano S. Apart from the fact that Ledger has a clearer and more user-friendly interface, Trezor also deserves to be on the list of top crypto wallets.

Otherwise, this wallet combines all the main pros and cons of hardware "wallets", which I wrote about above. It has been trusted by millions of users around the world since 2012 and so far there have been no major complaints about it.

How to buy a Trezor wallet

To buy a wallet on the start page of the official website trezor.io, you need to click the button "get your Trezor"

Currently, there are two types of wallets from this manufacturer: Trezor One and Trezor T. Version T is newer, with a color touch screen, microSD card support and improved security modules. True, this option is more expensive. If the Trezor One can be purchased for 89 euros, then the Trezor T will cost 149 euros.

After we have decided on the type of wallet that we will order, press the "add to cart" button, then "continue"

The site invites you to buy additional Trezor products, if you do not need them, click "continue" again. Then we fill out the purchase form, select the form of payment (via Visa / MasterCard or using Bitcoins) and click "pay with ..."

Delivery to Russia takes from 5 days to 6 weeks.

Installation and use of TREZOR is detailed in the video below.

No. 4. Coinbase

Coinbase is a wallet and cryptocurrency exchange in one service. It is considered one of the first platforms for exchanging and buying digital currencies and was created at a time when only a small handful of enthusiasts knew about cryptocurrencies. However, the exchange still has an excellent reputation in the crypto community.

Here you can buy and sell coins in seconds. Unlike other cryptocurrency exchange platforms, Coinbase does not need to wait until the request is completed, the service buys and sells cryptocurrency directly.

The main thing to say is that Coinbase is rightfully considered one of the most (if not the most) reliable cloud services for storing cryptocurrency.

How to register an online wallet with Coinbase

In order to register and start using the service, you need to go to the official website www.coinbase.com and click the "sign up" button.

After that, we fill in the data: name, surname, mail address, come up with a password to enter. We put a tick in front of "I certify ...", confirm that you are not a robot, and click "create account".

After that, you will receive an email with a link to confirm registration, you need to go to it. By the way, I advise you to check not only the incoming messages, but the messages in the "spam" folder, I received a letter there.

Registration passed, you can use the service. The interface is simple and intuitive, but just in case, I'll leave a short instruction for use below.

No. 5. Keepkey

  • Type of: hardware.
  • Supported currencies: 34 cryptocurrencies, among them there are no such top altcoins as Ripple, Stellar, Monero, EOS, IOTA, etc. You can see the full list of supported coins at www.keepkey.com/cryptocurrencies
  • Compatibility: Windows, Mac OS, Linux and Android.
  • Official site: www.keepkey.com

Another representative of hardware wallets that is in high demand. Its main advantage over the Ledger and Trezor competitors is its representative design. KeepKey looks quite stylish, the body of the device consists of a flat screen and a metal "case".

In the description, I already indicated that this wallet only supports 34 cryptocurrencies, while its competitors allow you to use a wider range of digital assets. And this is perhaps the only serious disadvantage of KeepKey, otherwise it fully complies with the security requirements of a hardware wallet.

How to Buy a KeepKey Hardware Wallet

To buy, go to the official website of the manufacturer and click "buy now".

Then we add the wallet to the cart via the "add to cart" button

On the next page we review our order and click "check out", after which a form appears to fill out the delivery data

We fill it out, then select the delivery method (regular delivery will cost $ 15, FedEX delivery is $ 71) and the payment method (you can pay by credit card, through PayPal or Bitcoins) and click "complete order"

For more information on how to install and use KeepKey, see the video.

No. 6. Blockchain.info

Another representative of cloud services, which has been known to users since the days of the blockchain, namely from 2011. Initially, the service provided only information on the generated blocks and transactions to conduct Bitcoin and Ether. By the way, this data can be viewed on the service even now; not even agencies such as Reuters, Bloomberg and other major media use them.


Block information is updated in real time

But, in addition to the information function, blockchain .info makes it possible to store BTC and ETH on its service.

The main reason that blockchain.info is used by millions of cryptocurrency holders is the reliability of the company, confirmed by an impeccable reputation. In addition, the service is quite easy to use and has mobile versions. Well, about the shortcomings of any online wallet, I already wrote above, blockchain.info is no exception.

How to create an online walletblockchain.info for cryptocurrencies

To create you need to click on the official website www.blockchain.com "create your wallet".

After that, a page will appear for entering mail, and a password for access (you come up with it yourself). Re-enter the password invented in the "confirm password" line, put a tick in front of "I have read ..." and click "continue"

The wallet is ready to use.

For more information on using, see the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FamCMgHIoUc

No. 7. Holy transaction

A well-established wallet among cryptocurrency users. Holy Transaction is very popular in Europe and is among the top most used crypto wallets. True, the wallet interface is in English, but if you work with the built-in browser translator, then everything is quite clear and simple.

The service makes it possible to carry out any operations with digital assets from one account. In addition, the wallet has the option of additional protection. You can block your outgoing transactions and for them you will need to confirm the withdrawal via email.

How to create an online cryptocurrency wallet Holy Transactions

To create a new wallet, you need to click the "sign up" button on the holytransaction.com official page.

Then we fill in the data for registration, the fields are standard, there is nothing complicated. Click "sign up".

After that, an email will be sent to your email address with a link that you must follow to enter your Holytransaction account.

Detailed instructions for use in the video.

No. 8. Binance

Binance is currently the world's # 1 cryptocurrency trading platform in terms of daily trading volume. Binance is truly one of the most reliable, user-friendly and affordable services of its kind.

I have already done a detailed review of this cryptocurrency exchange. Everything you need to know about the Binance cryptocurrency exchange: how to register, how to fund an account and how to trade, as well as current reviews about the exchange, read

Important! If you have already read the article about Binance, then you realized that it is one of the most reliable online platforms, not only for trading and storing cryptocurrencies. But, I want to warn you again that storing cryptocurrency on an exchange is not the safest option, use Binance only to store small amounts that you will need to quickly and timely buy / sell your digital assets.

Wallets not included in the rating

There are a lot of services on the market now for storing digital assets. Some of them are very popular, but nevertheless, I have not included them in my rating. There are several reasons for this:

  • mono-currency of the wallet. In this article, my goal was to talk specifically about wallets that support several cryptocurrencies at once. Therefore, I did not include such proven wallets as Bitcoin Core, MyEtherWallet and others;
  • low reliability and quality of the service. Now I mean specifically such online cryptocurrency wallets as Jaxx and Cryptonator. They are quite popular, but the work of these sites and their support service leaves much to be desired. Users of these services often face problems with withdrawing funds and inaction on the part of the administration.

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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 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 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 the blockchain to a computer, the second - only the wallet program, and information about transactions is stored on another server, where the program addresses.

"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 in a row, not single users), but the user himself provided the hacker with access to it. 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 the wallet of such a user 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 holds 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 convenient wallets for beginners due to its intuitive interface. But there is no HD wallet technology, the keys to wallets are stored on servers. Among the advantages is 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. it 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. Partly similar to 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 hardware 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.

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