Watch-Only Wallet

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Watch-Only Wallet is a type of cryptocurrency wallet that allows users to monitor balances and transactions without having access to the private keys needed to move funds. It’s commonly used for portfolio tracking or viewing activity on a cold wallet, ensuring security by keeping private keys offline. Watch-only wallets are ideal for passive monitoring without risking control of assets.

Use Case: A long-term holder tracks gold-backed balances from a watch-only wallet while keeping the spending keys secured offline.

Key Concepts:

Cold Wallet — Offline storage that keeps private keys disconnected from networks.
Air-Gapped Wallet — Fully isolated device; signs transactions offline and exports via QR/USB.
Hardware Wallet — Dedicated device that stores keys and signs offline.
Multisig Wallet — Shared-control wallet requiring multiple signatures.
Hot Wallet — Internet-connected wallet for active use with higher risk.
Self-Custody — Direct control of assets without third-party reliance.
Watch-Only Wallet — View-only wallet to monitor balances without spend authority.

Wallet Type	Internet Access	Security Level	Ease of Use	Best For
Air-Gapped Wallet	Completely offline	Maximum	Low	Ultra-secure, high-value asset storage
Hardware Wallet	Offline (connects only when needed)	Very High	Moderate	Long-term storage with periodic access
Paper Wallet	Completely offline	High (if stored safely)	Low	Low-tech, long-term storage
Watch-Only Wallet	Online (view-only)	Depends (no private key access)	High	Monitoring cold wallets or portfolios

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