Getting Started
Sigvault is a Bitcoin wallet platform that supports everything from simple hot wallets to complex multi-signature vaults with time-locked recovery paths. It combines a web interface, desktop companion app, and hardware wallet integration to provide flexible custody solutions.
How Sigvault Works
Section titled “How Sigvault Works”Sigvault separates key management from wallet operations. Your private keys can live on hardware devices you control, while Sigvault handles wallet creation, address generation, transaction building, and blockchain synchronization.
The platform consists of three main components:
- Web Application — Create and manage wallets, build transactions, monitor balances
- Desktop Application — Bridge between your hardware wallets and the Sigvault service
- Wallet Service — Bitcoin operations, PSBT handling, and blockchain interaction
Choosing a Wallet Type
Section titled “Choosing a Wallet Type”| Wallet Type | Signers | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Wallet | 1 (system key) | Everyday spending, small amounts |
| Single Signature | 1 (hardware device) | Personal savings, cold storage |
| Multisig | M-of-N (multiple devices) | Shared custody, business treasury |
| Taproot Vault | Multiple conditions with timelocks | Inheritance, institutional custody |
Hot Wallets
Section titled “Hot Wallets”The simplest wallet type. A single key is generated and managed by the system. No hardware wallet required — transactions can be signed immediately. Best for small amounts and frequent transactions.
Single Signature Wallets
Section titled “Single Signature Wallets”One hardware device holds the signing key. You connect your device through the desktop app, and Sigvault extracts only the public key. All transaction signing happens on the hardware device itself.
Multisig Wallets
Section titled “Multisig Wallets”Require multiple signatures (e.g., 2-of-3) to authorize a transaction. Keys can be distributed across hardware wallets, devices, and system-managed keys. Ideal for shared custody where no single party can move funds alone.
Taproot Vaults
Section titled “Taproot Vaults”The most advanced wallet type. Define multiple spending conditions, each with its own set of signers and optional time locks. For example, a vault might allow the owner to spend immediately, but also provide a recovery path that activates after a year requiring signatures from family members.
Supported Devices
Section titled “Supported Devices”Sigvault integrates with popular Bitcoin hardware wallets:
- BitBox02 — Shift Crypto
- Ledger — Nano S / Nano X
- Trezor — Model One / Model T
- Coldcard — Mk3 / Mk4
- SeedSigner — Open-source signing device
- Jade — Blockstream
Hardware wallets connect through the Sigvault desktop application, which communicates with the device over USB or serial.
Next Steps
Section titled “Next Steps”- Learn about Hot Wallets for quick access to funds
- Explore Taproot Vaults for advanced custody
- Set up the Desktop Application to connect hardware devices
- Read about User Managed Keys to understand how your keys are handled