- What is Guarda Ledger Cold Storage?
- Why Cold Storage is Essential for Crypto Security
- Step-by-Step: Setting Up Guarda Ledger Cold Storage
- Best Practices for Maximum Security
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use Guarda cold storage with hardware wallets?
- How do I access funds in cold storage?
- Is there a minimum amount for cold storage?
- What happens if my offline device breaks?
- Does Guarda charge cold storage fees?
What is Guarda Ledger Cold Storage?
Guarda Ledger cold storage refers to keeping your cryptocurrency wallet’s private keys completely offline using Guarda Wallet’s non-custodial solutions. Unlike hot wallets connected to the internet, cold storage isolates your digital assets from online threats like hackers and malware. Guarda facilitates this through air-gapped methods where keys are generated and stored on offline devices, providing bank-grade security for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and 400,000+ other assets.
Why Cold Storage is Essential for Crypto Security
Over $3.8 billion in crypto was stolen in 2022 alone due to online vulnerabilities. Cold storage mitigates these risks by:
- Eliminating exposure to internet-based attacks
- Preventing remote unauthorized access
- Protecting against phishing and malware
- Ensuring full control without third-party risks
- Providing long-term “set-and-forget” storage
Guarda’s approach combines user-friendly interfaces with military-grade encryption, making it ideal for securing large holdings.
Step-by-Step: Setting Up Guarda Ledger Cold Storage
- Download Guarda Wallet
Install Guarda on an offline device (old smartphone/laptop) from guarda.com. Never connect this device to the internet again after setup. - Generate Wallet Offline
Open Guarda, create a new wallet, and write down the 24-word recovery phrase on paper. Verify each word twice. - Transfer Funds Securely
Using a separate online device, send crypto to your cold wallet’s public address. Triple-check the address before confirming. - Store Recovery Phrase
Place the written phrase in a fireproof safe or bank deposit box. Never store digitally or photograph it. - Verify Receipt (Optional)
Use Guarda’s view-only mode on an online device to monitor balances without exposing keys.
Best Practices for Maximum Security
- Use dedicated offline devices (factory reset beforehand)
- Laminate paper backups or use cryptosteel for fire/water protection
- Split recovery phrases across multiple secure locations
- Conduct annual “dry runs” restoring wallets to test backups
- Never share recovery details with anyone
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use Guarda cold storage with hardware wallets?
Yes! Guarda integrates with Ledger and Trezor devices for hybrid security: manage assets via Guarda’s interface while keys remain on your hardware device.
How do I access funds in cold storage?
Import your recovery phrase into Guarda Wallet on any device. For enhanced security, use the offline device to sign transactions before broadcasting via online Guarda.
Is there a minimum amount for cold storage?
No minimums exist, but cold storage is recommended for holdings exceeding $1,000 due to setup efforts. Smaller amounts may use Guarda’s hot wallet with 2FA.
What happens if my offline device breaks?
Your recovery phrase is your true backup. Replace the device, reinstall Guarda offline, and restore using the phrase. Funds remain secure as long as the phrase is safe.
Does Guarda charge cold storage fees?
Guarda never charges for storage. You only pay standard blockchain transaction fees when moving funds in/out of cold storage.
