Bitcoin Forum

Hello!

I´m totally new to this and not a computer guy.  ;)
So I´m wondering about this cold storage that seems to be the only option. Can I store the wallet on a regular USB stick or some smaller hard drive?
Or does it have to be an offline computer or hardware wallet?
Was going to buy an hardware wallet until I realized that they only work for a few altcoins..
And the blockchain program needs top be on my online computer if I´ve got it right?

USB sticks are quite fragile, you risk losing your coins.

I prefer printing private key on a piece of paper and keep it in a safe place (more than one to be sure).
Search for "paper wallet".

Many people agree that having a cold storage in a USB stick is the safest way to protect your account because it's unaccessible by others. I also practice this.

I would copying a few in case one is accidentally dead.

They can be used but I won't be secure like paper wallets or hardware wallets becase some computer viruses can copy and send the files in USB sticks. But if you only use the USB stick on the secure computers (it would be better if it isn't connected to internet), it will be secure.

Unfortunately not all cryptos are able to put on a paper wallet for cold storage!!!

I much rather prefer storing my private keys obscured (changing or adding a few letters and numbers) hidden in a file and encrypted multiple times and uploaded to various services only you have access to.

If your house burns down or if someone gets a hold of your USB stick and realizes what's on it you're screwed.

it is constant debate about what medium to use for cold storage without spending much. i think single usb, printed paper or etc is at risk. i prefer 2 pcs of cheap usb encrypted sticks put in 2 different locations (give one stick to parents or etc). overkill? maybe ;D depends how much you store.
Cryptos are wild west - just lost full balance via btc-e  :'(

they are not very fragile, and you can have more than one to be sure, paper wallet are more fragile imho, it can get cut or burn easily, and i don't trust any printer at the moment, usb are more secure for me and easy to back up your wallet

Paper wallets is much more fragile same as you said.I would really go after usb hard drives for storing keys or any coins. Making more than one would really give me a piece of mind.Always think off on back up plans incase the primary usb or storage have lost or malfunction. Just to think as long you do have the private keys in the safe side you dont really have to worry at all.