Of:about beigel| Last update: 12/07/2022
A paper wallet is a general term for a piece of paper with a private key (or seed phrase) written on it. It is considered one of the best practices to keep your private key safe. In this post I will explain how to create a paper wallet from scratch.
Don't you like to read? Watch our video guide instead.
Paper Wallet Guide Summary
Here is the short way to create a paper wallet:
- Go toBitAddress
- Generate a random private key
- Click on "paper wallet"
- Choose how many copies you want to print
- Encrypt the wallet with a BIP38 password (optional)
- Print and enjoy 🙂
This is how you create a paper wallet in a nutshell. For a detailed explanation of the process and how to ensure it's more secure, read on. This is what I will cover:
- What is a paper wallet?
- The simple (not secure) way to create a paper wallet
- The advanced (safe) way to create a paper wallet
- Keeping your paper wallet safe
- frequent questions
- Conclution
1. What is a Bitcoin paper wallet?
A private key (or passphrase) is like the password for a Bitcoin wallet. You must stay offline in what is known ascold store. A private key is a long, jumbled string of random characters, while a headphrase is a set of 24 random words that allow you to reset your private key.
Simply put, a paper wallet is a piece of paper that has your private key written on it. This ensures that your private key stays offline, out of the reach of hackers.
Typically, this process will be performed for the purpose of storinglarge amounts of Bitcoin. It is considered much more secure than keeping coins in an active wallet (i.e. a wallet connected to the Internet).
By storing your Bitcoins in a paper wallet, you can only load funds into the wallet. If you wish to send these funds, you will need toimport the barrelthe private key from the paper wallet to a software wallet to gain access to your coins.
Here is an example of a paper wallet:
The Bitcoin address is written at the top, while the private key is written on the right side.
2. The easy way to create a paper wallet
Creating a paper wallet is very easy, the trick is to secure it correctly. If you just want to see the process in action and don't care too much about security, you can follow this process:
- Dirija-se aBitAddress(an open source software for producing paper wallets).
- Move your mouse/enter random text to help generate a random private key.
- Once this is done, choose “Paper Wallet” and print the results. Your Bitcoins can be stored via the public address on the left.
- You can also add a password to encrypt the paper wallet for extra protection when dialing theBIP38cryptographic box.
Is that! The process literally takes 30 seconds and you have your own paper wallet. You can generate as many addresses as you want by entering the value in 'Addresses to generate'. The addresses will all be unique and different.
Here is the whole process on video:
Why is this considered unsafe?
First of all, since you are connected to the web while doing this, someone might have the ability to see what is happening on your screen.
Second, if someone managed to hack BitAddress, for example, it can collect all the private keys that people created on the site.
Last but not least, if you are using Windows, you may have been infected with malware that you are not aware of. This could put your private key at risk as people could be monitoring your actions.
3. The advanced way to create a paper wallet
If you really want to protect your Bitcoins, make sure you create an ultra-secure paper wallet. The process is a bit tedious, but if you are talking about a large amount of money, it is worth the effort.
The necessary tools
This process is designed for PC (a Mac tutorial will be released soon, but for now you can get the general idea). This is what you need to download to your computer before you begin:
Download Ubuntu(latest version) – The operating system that we will use
Market LiLi(latest version) – A software to install Ubuntu on our pen drive
Descargar BitAddress– The software to create the paper wallet
You will also need a new (or completely formatted) flash drive.
Step 1 – Install Ubuntu on your flash drive
IMPORTANT: This step will erase everything on the flash drive.
- Open LiLi and insert your flash drive.
- Make sure you have selected the correct drive (click Refresh if the drive is not displayed).
- Choose "ISO/IMG/ZIP" and select the Ubuntu ISO file you downloaded in the previous step.
- Make sure only "Format Key to FAT32" is selected.
- Click on the lightning bolt to start the format and installation process
Once the process is complete, unzip the BitAdrress file you downloaded in the previous step and copy it to your USB stick.
Step 2: Go offline and test the printer
At this point, you need to disconnect your computer from the Internet, be it Wi-Fi or LAN. Make sure that remote access cannot be granted to the computer. When finished, check to see if you can still print a test page to see if the printer is working.
Step 3 – Run your computer using Ubuntu from your flash drive
Restart the computer. By clicking F12 or F1 during the boot process, you will be able to choose to run your operating system from your flash drive (#6 in the image below).
After the Ubuntu OS loads, you will choose the "try Ubuntu" option.
Step 4 – Set up a printer in the Ubuntu operating system
At this point, you'll want to set up your printer in the Ubuntu operating system:
- Click System Settings (a wrench and cogwheel icon)
- Click on "Printers"
- Click "Add"
- add your printer
- Print a test page
Step 5 – Open BitAddress and print your new paper wallet
The final step will be to open your copy of BitAddress.org and create a paper wallet locally on your machine.
- Open private browsing in FireFox (right click -> "Open a new private window")
- Enter the following in the address bar: file://cdrom/bitaddress.org-master/
- Click no "BitAddress.org.html" link
- Create your paper wallet by moving the cursor until the number in the upper right corner reaches 100
- Choose "Paper Wallet" from the menu
- Choose how many copies you would like to generate
- Add BIP38 encryption (optional)
- Print your paper wallet
Why is this process considered safe?
- You are not connected to the Internet while you produce your private key.
- You are using an "out of the box" operating system that has reduced the possibility of malware.
- You are using an offline version of BitAddress so no one can hack it.
4. Best practices to keep your paper wallet safe
Once you have your paper wallet, you can load funds using the Bitcoin address on the left hand side. It is important to keep the private key (on the right hand side) hidden and discreet.
Here are some methods you can use to better protect your paper wallet:
- Laminate it so it doesn't tear or fade.
- Store it in a safe or somewhere that only you can access.
- Use a device likeCriptoaceroto make it disaster proof
An advanced method involves creating multiple copies of the paper wallet, each containing only part of the private key or passphrase. For example, create three partial copies of which two of them can create the complete private key. See how it should look:
This way you can leave each copy in a different location and make it harder for someone to get your private key if you only steal one copy.
5. Frequently asked questions
How do you import a paper wallet to a software wallet?
When the time comes and you want to send Bitcoins from your paper wallet, you will need to import the private key or seed into a software wallet. While each wallet is different in its process, the general idea remains the same:
- Download a software wallet
- Click on "New Wallet"
- Import and existing seed/private key
- Scan the QR to get your paper wallet private key (this is much easier than typing the full key)
Important!Do not perform this process on a wallet that already has funds in it, as this may overwrite the current private key. Best to download a new wallet/app and import it into this process.
6. Conclusion: You Need Cold Storage
If you are serious about Bitcoin and want to store large amounts of coins, then you need to get some form of cold storage. If you can spare a little more, I suggest you use ahardware wallet, but if you can't afford it or want to avoid it for any other reason, a paper wallet is the way to go.
My personal advice is that if you end up using a paper wallet, take the time to review the advanced secure method and create an ultra-secure one. The extra 30 minutes you'll spend on the process could end up being worth it.
Have you had any experience with paper wallets? What is your favorite method to create it? I would love to hear about it in the comments section below.
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FAQs
How do I setup a secured Bitcoin wallet? ›
- Pick a wallet app and download it on a desktop or mobile device; many software wallets have both options.
- Create an account. ...
- Write down your recovery or “seed” phrase. ...
- Add crypto to your wallet.
It is generally created with a key generator program and printed on paper as two strings of characters and two Quick Response (QR) codes. A paper wallet is a non-custodial cold storage wallet — meaning you control the keys yourself, and the wallet is not connected to the internet.
What is the best Bitcoin paper wallet? ›- Best Overall: Ledger Nano X.
- Best for Security: Trezor Model T.
- Best for Beginners: Exodus.
- Best for Advanced Bitcoin Users: Electrum.
- Best for Mobile Users: Mycelium.
Creating a Bitcoin wallet is as easy as installing software on your mobile device or laptop/desktop. When you install the app, your Bitcoin wallet is automatically created. You can then receive bitcoin to your wallet immediately, store it safely, and use it as you please.
Is Bitcoin paper wallet safe? ›A paper wallet removes the element of internet accessibility. As such, there will be no avenue for hackers and other malicious parties to exploit your crypto holdings. It's almost impossible to steal assets stored in a paper wallet — unless a person gets hold of the physical paper you printed when creating the wallet.
Is a paper wallet safer than a hardware wallet? ›Hardware wallets are more secure than paper wallets as they have a secure chip in them meaning a private key never has to be entered on a connected computer. Instead, a pin is entered on the hardware wallet itself.
Do you need an ID to open a Bitcoin wallet? ›Yes, you can buy Bitcoin without verifying your identity. There are two ways: decentralized exchanges and Bitcoin ATMs. Although both options allow you to buy crypto without identity verification, they work much differently than the usual process.
How can I create my own wallet? ›- Step 1: Select a software wallet app you want to use. ...
- Step 2: Download the wallet app to your phone or computer. ...
- Step 3: Create an account. ...
- Step 4: Transfer assets. ...
- Step 1: Select the hardware you want to use.
Once created, a Paper Wallet is very easy to use. To receive funds in your Paper Wallet, you must scan the Public Key (the top QR code) at the time of your purchase.
Is a paper wallet anonymous? ›Paper wallet for Bitcoin is a free anonymous Bitcoin wallet accessible to all. A paper wallet for Bitcoin is simply a piece of paper on which your private and public keys are printed. It is much simpler to keep it hidden. It is impossible to know who owns the wallet, even if it is publicly disclosed.
What are the cons of paper wallet? ›
Disadvantages of paper wallets
You could lose the paper itself and thereby lose access to your wallet forever. The ink on the paper could fade over time, and that's just a disaster waiting to happen if you have old-school printers. Further, paper wallets are designed to store only a single currency.
While you are not required to store your bitcoin on a hardware wallet, we highly recommend it. Even for small amounts, hardware wallets are a good investment because they protect your private keys and give you peace of mind that is not possible when using software wallets.
What are the advantages of Bitcoin paper wallet? ›Paper wallets have three main advantages: they're free to set up, they're not connected to the internet – known as “cold storage” – so they're highly secure, and only you have access to your wallet. But there are major disadvantages too.
Which Bitcoin wallet is best in USA? ›- Coinbase Wallet - Best for Beginners.
- MetaMask - Best for Ethereum.
- TrustWallet - Best for Mobile.
- Ledger Nano S Plus - Best Hardware Crypto Wallet.
- Electrum - Best Desktop Bitcoin Wallet.
- BlueWallet - Best Mobile Bitcoin Wallet.
- Exodus - Best for Desktop.
Paper wallets were considered one of the safest ways to store cryptocurrency for several years. However, they have fallen out of favor with many cryptocurrency fans because they are susceptible to environmental factors, can degrade with time, be misplaced, or otherwise be damaged.
What is the best and safest Bitcoin wallet? ›- Exodus crypto wallet: Best overall.
- Shift Crypto wallet: Best for beginners.
- Electrum crypto wallet: Best for advanced users.
- OPOLO crypto wallet: Best for Android users.
- Mycelium crypto wallet: Best for mobile users.
- Cobo crypto wallet: Best for digital storage.
A simple crypto wallet app with a basic feature list can cost around $25,000 to $40,000. On the other hand, a mobile wallet app with an extensive feature list including in-chat transactions, KYC verifications, OTC trading, etc. is bound to cost around $200,000 or even more.
How much do you need to open a Bitcoin wallet? ›Opening a bitcoin wallet is easy, almost as simple as downloading an app on your phone or laptop. All you have to do is download the Yellow Card crypto exchange app, and you get a free bitcoin wallet once you install and sign up.
How much does it cost to open a Bitcoin wallet? ›How much money do I need to open a crypto wallet? It depends. Hardware-based wallets generally cost between $100 and $200, though many software-based wallets are free. Most don't require you to actually own any cryptocurrency.
Can someone steal my Bitcoin wallet? ›Because private keys are stored in application and device wallets, hackers can access them and steal your cryptocurrency.
Can you lose your Bitcoin wallet? ›
Yes, you can lose Bitcoin (or any crypto) forever. You can put your coins in a wallet and forget the passwords, for example, or have your crypto stolen — you could even send them to the wrong crypto address. In those cases, it's typically impossible to recover your crypto.
What was the first Bitcoin paper wallet? ›Peter Kroll's Bitaddress.org was the first to introduce a user-friendly and popular paper wallet generator. A printable paper wallet generated on bitaddress.org with a public key (Load & Verify) and a private key (Spend).
Which is the most secure type of wallet? ›1) ZenGo – Most Secure Non-custodial Wallet
ZenGo is the most secure non-custodial wallet in Web3 by removing the private key vulnerability, making it the simplest yet most secure wallet to invest in cryptocurrency.
Conclusion. Even if you've secured your paper wallet from being compromised online, it's still not entirely safe. The paper wallet is subject to a number of real-world but avoidable risks. In some ways, the printed method of storing keys was a distinct improvement over purely online storage methods back in 2011.
How is a paper wallet accessed? ›“Paper wallets” in the context of ATMs are single pairings of a public address and private key that print out on receipt paper before you insert cash. When you press “Create New Wallet” at the ATM the machine will print you one of these.
Do you need a driver's license for Bitcoin? ›*In the majority of the cases, the best document to use is your passport. If you don't have a passport, a National ID or a Driving License will usually suffice. (US citizens and residents, however, are required to submit their state-issued driver's license or ID).
Which Bitcoin wallets don t need verification? ›Q #3) Which Bitcoin wallet does not need verification? Answer: In addition to ShapeShift, BitQuick, and LocalBitcoins.com, Paxful, and DameCoins, you can check Coingate, Lobstr, Paybis, and Coinmama which allow you to buy Bitcoin anonymously. In fact, peer-to-peer platforms do not need you to use a credit card.
How can I buy Bitcoin without ID or SSN? ›When you buy or sell bitcoin at an ATM, it will not be necessary to produce your SSN. Depending on the amount of the transaction, you may need to provide only your phone number, or you might need to supply your phone number and a photo ID.
How do I make a real crypto wallet? ›- Determine what kind of wallet you want to use (Hardware, desktop or mobile)
- Buy or download your wallet.
- Install the software.
- Set up account and security features.
- Deposit your cryptocurrency.
Software wallets
The first wallet program, simply named Bitcoin, and sometimes referred to as the Satoshi client, was released in 2009 by Satoshi Nakamoto as open-source software. In version 0.5 the client moved from the wxWidgets user interface toolkit to Qt, and the whole bundle was referred to as Bitcoin-Qt.
How do I start a digital wallet? ›
To start, locate the wallet app on your smartphone—most are already installed—then enter your credit or debit card information. The application allows you to store multiple cards and to set your default payment method. Your digital wallet can't be used for a payment without your authentication.
How do I get my QR code on paper? ›You can print a QR code or barcode if you save the file containing the URL or the like in the OBC format to a USB memory, then connect the USB memory to this machine and finally print the file. Before printing, specify the number of rows and columns in which one QR code or barcode is to be placed on one sheet of paper.
How do I check my Bitcoin paper wallet balance? ›You simply have to scan the QR code on your paper wallet using your favorite wallet application to check the amount contained in your paper wallet. You can also press “check wallet balance” on the ATM's screen on the Bitcoin or Litecoin main menu and scan your QR code as well.
Can a wallet be hacked? ›It's possible for hackers to break into anything on the internet. For example, someone who keeps their private keys on a cloud storage account makes the process of getting into their wallet too easy, as the only line of security for hackers to get past would be their iCloud password, especially if it's not strong.
What is dark wallet? ›It was a digital wallet that enhanced data anonymization by obfuscating Bitcoin transactions. Dark Wallet was also sometimes referred to as DarkWallet or Darkwallet. Although it was never really completed, Dark Wallet inspired many later anonymity projects.
Can someone track your wallet address? ›Because someone's wallet address does not have to be anonymous but can be hard to find, a Bitcoin wallet address is called a pseudonym, an alias, which is different from someone's actual name. The data is not linked to an identity, but it is still possible to trace someone's identity or a pseudonym. 5.
What is the best paper wallet generator? ›- BitAddress (a paper wallet generator which uses browser's Javascript engine)
- WalletGenerator (a paper wallet generator which uses browser's Javascript engine)
- Mycellium Entropy (a hardware device for generating highly secure paper wallets)
The two most common types of cold storage wallets include hardware wallets and paper wallets. You can use hardware wallets just like a USB device for accessing your crypto and making transactions with it. On the other hand, a paper wallet is basically a printout of your public and private keys on a piece of paper.
What makes a wallet good? ›When looking for a wallet, you'll want to find one that can do everything you need. It should have enough room for all of your essentials, like credit cards, cash and ID. It's also important that the wallet is easy to use. You'll want quick and easy access to your cards and money when you're out and about.
Can anyone see my bitcoin wallet? ›Anyone can see the balance and all transactions of any address. Since users usually have to reveal their identity in order to receive services or goods, Bitcoin addresses cannot remain fully anonymous.
How do I claim unclaimed bitcoins? ›
How Can I Recover Lost Bitcoin? There is no way to recover bitcoin that is truly lost. Some mistaken transactions have been refunded, but only when the counterparty personally knows the sender, which is infrequent. If a private key is lost, then bitcoin belonging to that key is unspendable.
How do you cash out a physical Bitcoin? ›Firstly, you can use a third-party exchange broker. These third parties (which include bitcoin ATMs and debit cards) will exchange your bitcoins for cash at a given rate. It is simple and secure. Or, you use a peer-to-peer transaction to sell your bitcoin.
How to make paper wallets? ›- Start with a piece of 8 1⁄2 by 11-inch (22 by 28-cm) paper. ...
- Fold the paper into eighths. ...
- Cut 1/2-inch (1.25-cm) slits into the lengthwise creases. ...
- Fold the left edge towards the last vertical crease. ...
- Fold the paper in half widthwise. ...
- Cut off the bottom-left corner.
Head over to BitAddress (an open source software for producing paper wallets). Move your mouse around / enter random text to help generate a random private key. Once done, choose “Paper Wallet” and print out the results. Your Bitcoins can then be stored through the public address on the left.
How do I transfer bitcoins from paper wallet? ›- Select your Bitcoin wallet.
- Click on the Options icon (top right of your screen)
- Tap ”Add Bitcoin from Private Keys”
- Scan the QR code of your BTC private key (or write it manually) and click on ”Import”
Coinbase adds paper wallets for bitcoins - CoinDesk.
Can I store my Bitcoin on paper? ›Paper wallets were once the most secure method for storing cryptocurrency. It is still a valid way to store your tokens if you have no other storage method. However, you should consider it a temporary method until you can access another way to store them.
Is Bitcoin paper wallet legit? ›Scammers use the fake paper wallets to invite the recipient to scan a QR code to access a crypto wallet with thousands of dollars inside. Scammers then ask the recipient to pay a small withdrawal fee, and provide details of their own crypto wallet in order to access the promised funds.
Are paper crypto wallets safe? ›A paper wallet removes the element of internet accessibility. As such, there will be no avenue for hackers and other malicious parties to exploit your crypto holdings. It's almost impossible to steal assets stored in a paper wallet — unless a person gets hold of the physical paper you printed when creating the wallet.
Is there a free Bitcoin wallet? ›Guarda is a free, all-purpose crypto wallet whose users can access their crypto via mobile, desktop or browser extension. It says it supports more than 400,000 digital assets.
Can you store Bitcoin in your brain? ›
Originally, a brain wallet was a hexadecimal string. Now, brain wallets can be stored as a sequence of 12-24 words (often called a mnemonic). While they draw interest and fascination, the consensus opinion is that this storage method for bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies is not a secure or practical option.
What is the safest wallet to store Bitcoin? ›Those interested in the safest storage should consider using a non-custodial cold hardware wallet for all of their long-term bitcoin and cryptocurrency storage. Only keep what you plan to use in your hot wallet. Once you're done with your transaction, move your crypto back to cold storage.
How do I find my Bitcoin paper wallet? ›You simply have to scan the QR code on your paper wallet using your favorite wallet application to check the amount contained in your paper wallet. You can also press “check wallet balance” on the ATM's screen on the Bitcoin or Litecoin main menu and scan your QR code as well.
Can people steal crypto from your wallet? ›Because private keys are stored in application and device wallets, hackers can access them and steal your cryptocurrency.
Can police track crypto wallet? ›Yes, the government (and anyone else) can track Bitcoin and Bitcoin transactions. All transactions are stored permanently on a public ledger, available to anyone. All the government needs to do is link you to your wallet or transaction.