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Thinking about buying crypto or NFTs? You’ll need a crypto wallet. When you create a wallet, two keys are generated: a private and a public key. The wallet stores your keys and allows you to sign transactions, generate new addresses, initiate transfers, track portfolio balances, manage your crypto, and interact with dApps. Crypto wallets come in many forms, from hardware wallets like Ledger to mobile apps that you can download on your phone or tablet.

When you buy crypto like Bitcoin and Ethereum, you’re issued with two keys: the public and private keys. The public key can be compared to a bank account number that you can share with third parties to receive crypto without worrying that your assets will be compromised. The private key signs transactions and allows you to send and receive crypto. It's crucial to keep your private keys secure and secret. If anyone has access to them, they will also have access to any crypto assets associated with those keys. A crypto wallet stores your private keys and gives you access to your assets.

There are different types of crypto wallets, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Hot wallets are connected to the internet and usually convenient to use, however, they are also vulnerable to online attacks. Examples include web-based, mobile, and desktop wallets. With cold wallets, your private keys are stored offline and out of reach of online threats. Examples include paper and hardware wallets. Wallets can also be categorized as custodial or non-custodial, depending on who holds the private keys. Storing your crypto in a custodial wallet means that a third party controls your private keys and, therefore, your assets. In contrast, a non-custodial wallet allows you to fully own and control your crypto.

Hot wallets store private keys on systems connected to the internet, which makes them susceptible to online attacks. Keeping your crypto on an exchange means you have no true ownership or control over it. If the exchange files for bankruptcy or pauses withdrawals, you lose access to your funds. Hardware wallets store your private keys offline, giving you full control and enhanced security. Even if you misplace or lose your hardware wallet, you can get a new one and use your Secret Recovery Phrase to access your assets.

Ready to get started? Here are the steps for getting your crypto wallet:

1. Get a Ledger hardware wallet. It stores your private keys in a secure, offline environment giving you peace of mind and complete control over your assets. All Ledger wallets are powered by an industry-leading Secure Element chip, together with Ledger's proprietary OS that protects your crypto & NFTs from sophisticated hacks.

2. Pair your Ledger wallet with the Ledger Live app to easily send, receive and grow crypto, keep track of your portfolio, and securely access a range of dApps and Web3 services. All in one place.

3. Add crypto to your Ledger wallet. Ledger has partnered with leading third-party providers so that you can securely buy, swap, and grow your crypto through the Ledger Live app. Your crypto will be sent to the safety of your Ledger hardware wallet.