Definition
An air gapped wallet is a type of cryptocurrency wallet whose device is completely disconnected from the internet and any other networks. Its core purpose is to store private keys in an environment that is physically isolated, reducing exposure to malware, remote exploits, and other online threats. Transactions are typically prepared on an online device and then transferred to the air gapped environment for signing, without ever directly connecting the wallet to a network. This design makes it a highly security-focused form of key storage compared with network-connected solutions.
As a security category, an air gapped wallet is closely related to a cold wallet, but emphasizes strict physical separation from all communication interfaces. The device used for an air gapped wallet may disable or avoid Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, and other connectivity options to maintain its isolation. By keeping signing operations offline, it aims to ensure that private keys remain inaccessible even if on-chain activity or connected systems are compromised. This approach is often favored where long-term or high-value asset protection is prioritized over convenience.
Context and Usage
In the broader security landscape, an air gapped wallet is considered a specialized implementation of offline key storage. It is typically used in contexts where strict control over private key exposure is required, such as treasury holdings or institutional custody. The wallet’s isolation is intended to complement on-chain security mechanisms by limiting the attack surface to physical access rather than remote compromise.
Within the spectrum of wallet types, an air gapped wallet can be viewed as a more stringent form of cold wallet, focusing on minimizing any potential data path between the signing device and external networks. Its role is to separate the environment that holds and uses private keys from the environment that interacts with blockchain networks. This separation defines the wallet’s identity as a security-focused storage method rather than a tool for frequent, on-chain transaction activity.