Air Gap
Definition
An air gap is a security measure where a computer or device is physically isolated from all networks, preventing remote attacks. For cryptocurrency, air-gapped devices store private keys that never connect to the internet, protecting against online threats.
Technical Explanation
Air-gapped signing involves creating transactions on an online device, transferring unsigned data to the air-gapped device (via QR codes or USB), signing with the offline private keys, then returning the signed transaction for broadcast. The private keys never touch networked devices.
Post-quantum air-gapped security requires that the offline device runs quantum-resistant signature algorithms. Larger SPHINCS+ signatures may require multiple QR codes or larger data transfers, but the security model remains effective against all remote attacks.
SynX Relevance
SynX supports air-gapped transaction signing through QR code exchange. Create transactions in the online wallet, scan to an offline SynX device for signing, then scan the signed transaction back for broadcast. Your SPHINCS+ keys remain completely isolated from networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I set up air-gapped SynX?
- Install SynX on a device that never connects to networks, import only the view key online.
- Are air-gapped signatures slower?
- The signing is fast; the manual QR transfer adds a few seconds.
- Is air gap worth the inconvenience?
- For high-value holdings, absolutely—it's the strongest protection available.
Ultimate isolation for ultimate security. Secure with SynX