Starting with Self-Custody
A practical path from exchange purchase to keys you control.
How to Store Bitcoin
Cold Storage Basics
Keeping signing keys offline to reduce exposure to remote attacks.
Overview
Cold storage means private keys never touch an internet-connected device during normal use. Hardware wallets and properly used air-gapped setups are common approaches.
Pair cold storage with redundant offline backups and a documented recovery process. When you need to move funds, verify addresses on the hardware screen, not only on your computer.
Defining cold storage
Cold storage keeps signing keys offline except during deliberate signing sessions. Hardware wallets and air-gapped setups are common.
The goal is shrinking the window malware or remote attackers can reach your keys.
Setup patterns
Typical flow: generate seed on device, verify words, receive test funds, then transfer savings. Passphrase or multisig add layers.
Paper wallets are largely obsolete—modern hardware with screen verification is safer for most users.
When to move funds cold
Many move long-term holdings cold once they exceed what they would lose from a hot wallet compromise.
Pair cold storage with clear inheritance instructions so heirs know how to use backups.
