Have you ever imagined a world where you can carry out a transaction that is not slowed but flows seamlessly as a text message? Web3 wallets provide a decentralized, transparent, and direct way to store value on mobile devices and engage with digital assets.
INTRODUCTION
Web3 signifies the third era of internet services that focuses on decentralized applications (DApps) and blockchain technology. Web3 emphasizes decentralization which aims to bring transparency, security, and user autonomy as they explore the internet.
This article will be about what is a web3 wallet, its features, the significance of web3 in the decentralized web, types, how to set up one, and security considerations.
WHAT IS A WEB3?
Digital wallets have evolved in their capabilities with the rise in blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. Digital wallets allow users to have full control over their digital wallets and assets and allow for secure, peer-to-peer transactions without the need for middlemen.
A Web3 wallet is a digital tool empowering users to engage with the decentralized web, crucial for those entering the Web3 environment. Web3 wallet stores private keys which are necessary for accessing blockchain networks and conducting transactions. Unlike traditional wallets, which store physical currency, Web3 wallets store and manage digital assets such as Stablecoins, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and Badges and loyalty gifts.
FEATURES OF WEB3 WALLETS.
The web3 wallet features made them valuable tools to interact with blockchain networks.
- Web3 wallets allow one to send and receive money from one wallet through a blockchain network without involving a middleman. In other words, it is decentralized.
- It can manage different digital assets such as Cryptocurrencies and other assets like NFTs and tokenized assets.
- Web3 wallets use cryptography to protect private keys from malware, hackers, and threats.
- It can interact with various applications making it easy for users to interact with different blockchain networks.
TYPES OF WEB3 WALLETS.
CUSTODIAL WALLETS
Custodial wallet is a type of wallet where a third party such as an exchange manages the private key on behalf of the users.
NON-CUSTODIAL WALLETS
On the other hand, a non-custodial wallet also known as a self-custodial wallet, is a wallet where the user has full control of his wallet as he has his private key.
SMART CONTRACT WALLETS
Smart contract wallets are managed by programs that are outlined in the smart contracts. and require signatures, effectively increasing security.
SIGNIFICANCE OF WEB3 WALLET IN DECENTRALIZED ECOSYSTEM.
Web3 wallet will surely be a significant part of financial infrastructure as blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies continue to increase in popularity. Web3 wallets lead to the decentralized world as they securely manage and store digital assets, interact with decentralized applications (DApps), participate in decentralized finance (DeFi), and vote on proposals for decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs).
DIFFERENT WEB3 AVAILABLE
There are different web3 wallets available. Each has its own features and functions. Some of them are as follows:
- Metamask
- Trust wallet
- Phantom wallet
- Coinbase wallet
- MyEther wallet
- Torus
- Coinbase
- Binance
- Argents
- Squads
HOW WEB3 WALLETS WORK.
As people are becoming interested in blockchain and cryptocurrency, web3 wallet is gaining popularity.
- Download and install the preferred wallet.
- You set up the wallet, once it is installed by creating a new wallet or importing an already existing wallet using a private key or seed phrase.
- Set up a password to secure the wallet. Also, a seed phrase that comprises multiple words may be provided.
- You will be able to view your public address/key once the wallet has been secured.
- The wallet is now ready to receive and send assets on the blockchain.
SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS
There are security measures required to protect user’s funds.
The first and foremost is protecting your private key by not sharing it with anyone and backing it up.
Secondly, ensure you have a backup plan because most web3 wallets come with a backup phrase or seed that enables users to restore their wallets and recover lost assets.
Also, like other technologies and industries, blockchain has lots of scammers parading in i,t and to avoid becoming a victim, make sure to use reputable wallets and never give, or enter your private keys into suspicious websites or applications
.