> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.leather.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.leather.io/learn/bitcoin-wallet.md).

# What are Bitcoin Wallets?

A Bitcoin wallet holds the keys that control your bitcoin. How wallets work, the kinds there are and where Leather fits.

A Bitcoin wallet holds the keys that control your bitcoin. The bitcoin itself stays on the blockchain; the wallet signs the transactions that move it.

## How a wallet works

* A **private key** signs transactions and proves you own the funds. Never share it.
* A **public key** is calculated from the private key, and your **addresses** are derived from public keys. You share addresses to receive bitcoin.
* Most wallets derive all their keys from one backup, the Secret Key (also called a recovery phrase or seed phrase).

See [Public Key and Private Key](/learn/public-private-keys.md).

## Custodial and self-custody

With a custodial wallet, a company such as an exchange holds the keys for you. With a self-custody wallet, you hold them. Leather is a self-custody wallet. See [Custodial vs. Non-Custodial Wallets](/learn/custodial-vs-non-custodial-wallet.md).

## Kinds of wallets

* **Browser extension:** runs in your browser and connects to web apps.
* **Mobile app:** runs on your phone.
* **Desktop app:** runs on your computer.
* **Web wallet:** runs on a website. Most are custodial.
* **Hardware wallet:** a device that keeps keys offline. See [What is a Bitcoin Hardware Wallet?](/learn/what-is-a-bitcoin-hardware-wallet.md).

## The first wallet

Satoshi Nakamoto released the first Bitcoin wallet, Bitcoin-Qt, with Bitcoin in 2009. It later became Bitcoin Core, which is still maintained.

## Leather

Leather is a browser extension for Chromium browsers and a mobile app. It holds bitcoin, Stacks tokens and collectibles, connects to apps on Bitcoin and Stacks, and works with Ledger devices. See [Install Leather](/get-started/install-leather.md).