WalletConnect
Web3 Infrastructure • Tools • Interfaces
cross-platform wallet-to-dApp bridge
WalletConnect is an open-source protocol that enables secure connections between decentralized applications (dApps) and crypto wallets. By scanning a QR code or clicking a deep link, users can interact with dApps from mobile or desktop wallets without exposing their private keys. WalletConnect supports multiple wallets and enhances the Web3 user experience through seamless, trustless communication.
Use Case: A user wants to swap tokens on a DEX using their desktop browser but prefers to sign transactions with their mobile wallet for added security. They click “WalletConnect” on the dApp, scan the QR code with their Bifrost wallet, and approve the transaction from their phone—never exposing their private keys to the browser.
Key Concepts:
- Deep Linking — URL-based connection method for mobile wallet interactions
- Browser Wallet — Extension-based wallets that can connect via WalletConnect
- Mobile Wallet — Primary wallet type used with WalletConnect QR scanning
- Private Keys — Cryptographic keys that remain secure during WalletConnect sessions
- dApps — Decentralized applications that integrate WalletConnect for wallet access
- Self-Custody — User maintains control of keys throughout the connection
- MetaMask — Popular wallet with WalletConnect support
- QR Code Authentication — Visual method for establishing secure wallet connections
- Session Management — Persistent connections that can be revoked anytime
Summary: WalletConnect bridges the gap between dApps and wallets across devices, enabling secure transaction signing without compromising private keys. It’s become essential infrastructure for Web3, allowing users to interact with DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, and other dApps from their preferred wallet regardless of platform.
How WalletConnect Works
the mechanics of cross-device wallet connections
User clicks “WalletConnect” on dApp • dApp generates unique QR code • Code contains encrypted session data • Valid for limited time window
Open mobile wallet app • Navigate to scanner • Scan QR code from screen • Wallet decrypts session info
Wallet shows dApp details • User reviews permissions • Approves or rejects connection • Encrypted tunnel established
dApp sends transaction requests • Wallet displays for review • User signs with private key • Signed tx sent back to dApp
WalletConnect Compatible Wallets
popular wallets supporting the protocol
WalletConnect Use Cases
when and why to use cross-device connections
• Research dApps on large screen
• Sign transactions on mobile
• Keep private keys off computer
• Best of both worlds
• Reduced phishing risk
• Start on phone, continue on laptop
• Same wallet across devices
• No extension installation needed
• Works on any browser
• Great for public computers (careful!)
• Connect mobile dApps to mobile wallet
• Deep links auto-open wallet
• Seamless mobile experience
• No QR scanning needed
• One-tap approvals
WalletConnect Security
best practices for safe cross-device connections
✓ Verify dApp URL before connecting
✓ Review all transaction details
✓ Disconnect sessions after use
✓ Use hardware wallet when possible
✓ Check connected sessions regularly
✓ Only scan QR from trusted sources
✗ Scan QR codes from random links
✗ Approve transactions you don’t understand
✗ Leave sessions connected indefinitely
✗ Connect to unknown dApps
✗ Share QR codes or session data
✗ Ignore wallet warnings
• Fake dApp sites with real-looking QR
• “Support” asking you to connect
• Airdrop claims requiring connection
• Malicious transaction requests
• Session hijacking attempts
• QR code screenshot phishing
• Check active sessions in wallet
• Disconnect unused connections
• Sessions can be revoked anytime
• Each dApp = separate session
• Closing browser doesn’t disconnect
• Manual disconnect recommended
WalletConnect v1 vs v2
understanding protocol versions
• Single chain per session
• Bridge server required
• Being phased out
• Some older dApps still use it
• Simpler but limited
• Deprecated January 2024
• Multi-chain support
• Decentralized relay network
• Better performance
• Enhanced security
• Session persistence
• Industry standard now
WalletConnect Troubleshooting
fixing common connection issues
• Increase screen brightness
• Ensure QR is fully visible
• Clean camera lens
• Try different angle/distance
• Refresh dApp and regenerate QR
• Check camera permissions
• Check internet on both devices
• Disconnect and reconnect
• Clear wallet cache
• Update wallet app
• Try different network (WiFi/data)
• Restart wallet app
• Check wallet is on correct network
• Ensure session is still active
• Refresh dApp page
• Check wallet notifications
• Some requests take time
• Try disconnecting/reconnecting
• dApp and wallet must match chains
• Switch network in wallet first
• Some dApps auto-prompt switch
• Disconnect and reconnect on right chain
• Check dApp supports your network
• WalletConnect v2 handles this better
WalletConnect Setup Checklist
connecting safely and efficiently
☐ Verify dApp URL is correct
☐ Check dApp reputation/reviews
☐ Ensure wallet is updated
☐ Confirm you’re on correct network
☐ Have some native token for gas
☐ Know what you’re trying to do
☐ Scan QR from official dApp only
☐ Review permissions requested
☐ Verify chain/network matches
☐ Read transaction details fully
☐ Check amounts before signing
☐ Understand what you’re approving
☐ Disconnect session when done
☐ Check wallet for active sessions
☐ Review any token approvals granted
☐ Revoke unnecessary approvals
☐ Monitor wallet for unexpected activity
☐ Clear browser cache if on public device