Technical Definition
Air-gapped
An air-gapped device is intentionally isolated from normal network connections to reduce direct exposure to remote attacks.
By Crypto University Editorial
Cold storageHardware walletPrivate key
✦ Key Insight
Reducing connectivity can reduce certain attack paths against private keys.
✕ Common Misconceptions
Air-gapped does not automatically mean secure. Compromised firmware, malicious transaction data and physical attacks remain possible.
Detailed Explanation
An air-gapped signing device avoids ordinary internet, Wi-Fi or direct network communication. Transaction information may instead move through QR codes, removable media or another controlled method.
In Practice
“A wallet displays transaction data as a QR code that an offline signer scans and signs.”