What is the difference between a bitcoin wallet address and a public key?

3 answers

• lin zhengDec 11, 2022 · 3 years ago
  A bitcoin wallet address is a string of alphanumeric characters that represents a destination for sending and receiving bitcoins. It is derived from the user's public key through a series of mathematical operations. On the other hand, a public key is a cryptographic key that is used to encrypt and decrypt data. In the context of bitcoin, the public key is used to generate the wallet address, while the private key is used to sign transactions. So, in summary, the wallet address is derived from the public key and is used to identify the destination of bitcoin transactions, while the public key is used for encryption and decryption purposes.
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• Hein KronborgJun 12, 2020 · 5 years ago
  Alright, let me break it down for you. A bitcoin wallet address is like your home address in the digital world. It's a unique string of characters that you share with others so they can send you bitcoins. Think of it as your digital mailbox. On the other hand, a public key is like the key to your mailbox. It's a cryptographic key that is used to encrypt and decrypt data. In the context of bitcoin, the public key is used to generate the wallet address. So, in simple terms, the wallet address is derived from the public key and is used to receive bitcoins, while the public key is used for encryption and decryption purposes.
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• Rana Mahmoud 202201271Mar 27, 2025 · 8 months ago
  When it comes to bitcoin, a wallet address and a public key serve different purposes. A wallet address is a unique identifier that allows you to receive bitcoins. It is derived from your public key, which is a cryptographic key used for encryption and decryption. The public key is used to generate the wallet address, while the private key is used to sign transactions. So, in essence, the wallet address is derived from the public key and is used to identify the destination of bitcoin transactions, while the public key is used for encryption and decryption purposes. Hope that clears things up!
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