Introduction
GWallet is an open-source, lightweight, and cross-platform brainwallet designed for users who want to manage multiple cryptocurrencies securely and conveniently. Prioritizing ease of use and security, GWallet eliminates the need for blockchain downloads (thin-client approach) while offering cold-storage capabilities—all without compromising on functionality.
Core Principles
1. Convenience & Security Over Privacy
- Lightweight Design: No need to download entire blockchains (unlike full-node wallets).
- Multi-Currency Support: Streamlined UX avoids currency-specific complexities (e.g., no "change addresses" even for Bitcoin).
- Reused Infrastructure: Leverages existing protocols like Electrum’s Stratum (TLS support pending for enhanced privacy).
2. Security-First Approach
- Offline Cold Storage: Air-gapped transactions via JSON import/export—safer than hardware wallets (no proprietary hardware vulnerabilities).
- Brainwallet Model: Uses a passphrase as the seed phrase, eliminating backup hassles. WarpWallet-style security ensures resistance against targeted attacks.
3. Development Philosophy
- Open-Source Commitment: Maximizes auditability and security (unlike closed-source alternatives like Jaxx).
- Unified Codebase: Xamarin.Forms enables shared logic across platforms (Desktop, Mobile, Tizen).
Roadmap: Upcoming Features
Layer 2 Scaling:
- Payment channels (Lightning Network for BTC/LTC; Raiden for ETH/ETC/DAI).
- Cross-chain atomic swaps via COMIT network.
Enhanced Usability:
- NFC support for contactless transactions.
- "Bits" as default BTC unit for microtransactions.
Privacy & Security Upgrades:
- MimbleWimble (Grin) integration.
- Threshold signatures and deniable encryption (duress passphrase support).
Decentralized Tools:
- ETH gas station (token-funded gas fees).
- Decentralized exchanges (e.g., eth2dai.com).
👉 Explore advanced wallet features
Anti-Roadmap: Exclusions
- Privacy Coins: ZCash (trusted setup concerns), Monero/Dash (outdated privacy tech vs. MimbleWimble).
- BCash: No support due to technical limitations (transaction malleability, lack of Layer 2).
Installation Guide
System-Wide Install (Linux/Unix):
./configure.sh --prefix=/usr
make
sudo make install Run with gwallet post-installation.
Acknowledgments
- Contributors: Over 10 active developers (see contributions).
- Key Libraries: Nethereum, NBitcoin, ZXing.Net.Mobile, and the .NET/Xamarin community.
Want to contribute? Check the CONTRIBUTING guidelines.
FAQ
Q1: Is GWallet safer than hardware wallets?
A: Yes! Cold-storage mode on air-gapped devices avoids hardware vulnerabilities (e.g., Ledger exploits).
Q2: How does the brainwallet model work?
A: Your passphrase generates the seed, removing backup needs. Security parallels WarpWallet’s brute-force resistance.
Q3: Can I use GWallet offline?
A: Absolutely. Import/export transactions via JSON files for cold storage.
👉 Learn more about cold storage best practices
Q4: Which cryptocurrencies are supported?
A: Focus on major coins (BTC, ETH, etc.)—no "shitcoins" or privacy coins with flawed setups.
Feedback & Support
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