What is a crypto wallet?

Crypto wallets range from simple-to-use apps to more complex security solutions. The main types of wallets you can choose from include:

• Paper wallets: Keys are written on a physical medium like paper and stored in a safe place.
• Hardware wallets: Keys are stored in a thumb-drive device that is kept in a safe place and only connected to a computer when you want to use your crypto.
• Online wallets: Keys are stored in an app or other software – look for one that is protected by two-step encryption.

Paper and hardware wallets are harder for malicious users to access because they are stored offline, but they are limited in function and risk being lost or destroyed. Online wallets offered by a major exchange like Coinbase are the simplest way to get started in crypto and offer a balance of security and easy access.

(Because your private info is online, your protection against hackers is only as good as your wallet provider's security – so make sure you look for features like two-factor verification.)

Using an app like Coinbase Wallet or Exodus gives you easy access to your crypto holdings. You can:

• Manage all your digital assets in one secure place 
• Control your own private keys 
• Send and receive cryptocurrency to and from anywhere in the world 
• Interact with usernames rather than long, hexadecimal “public key” addresses 
• Browse dapps (decentralized finance apps) 
• Shop at stores that accept cryptocurrency

• The main Coinbase app (or Coinbase.com) allows you to buy and sell crypto or exchange it for fiat currency and transfer it to a bank account. If you just want to invest in Bitcoin or another digital currency it’s all you need. The Coinbase app will securely manage the rights to your private keys.
• Coinbase Wallet is a separate app that allows you to store your private keys and to send, receive, and spend digital money; browse and use DeFi applications, and more. You don’t need a Coinbase account to use Coinbase Wallet.