Crypto wallets

A crypto wallet is the essential interface for managing private keys and interacting with blockchain networks.

Crypto wallets do not actually store digital currency; instead, they secure the private keys required to authorize transactions on a blockchain. These tools come in two primary forms: hot wallets (software-based apps like MetaMask or Phantom for frequent trading) and cold wallets (physical hardware devices like Ledger or Trezor for long-term security). By 2025, the number of unique active wallets surpassed 820 million, reflecting a massive shift toward self-custody. Modern wallets now function as Web3 super-apps, allowing users to swap assets across 50+ blockchains, stake tokens for yield, and manage NFT collections directly through a single encrypted interface.

https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-crypto-wallet