HWI (Hardware Wallet Interface)
Command-line tool and Python library for connecting hardware wallets to Bitcoin Core. Enables direct signing with devices like Trezor, Ledger, and Coldcard without trusting intermediary software.
How It Works
- Provides a bridge between Bitcoin Core's wallet and hardware signing devices
- Uses the hardware wallet's secure element to sign transactions
- Core handles UTXO management, balance tracking, and broadcasting
- Device never exposes private keys
Trade-offs
| Advantage | Limitation |
|---|---|
| Multi-device support | CLI setup; not beginner-friendly |
| Broad hardware compatibility | Requires running Bitcoin Core |
| No additional node software | More complex than all-in-one solutions |
| Suitable for advanced/custom integrations | Steeper learning curve |
Alternatives for Connecting Wallets to Nodes
| Method | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| HWI + Bitcoin Core | High | Advanced users, custom software |
| Electrum Server | Medium | Remote access, multiple wallets |
| Sparrow Wallet | Low | Unified, user-friendly setup |
Maintained as part of the Bitcoin Core project.
See also: [bitcoin-core], [sparrow-wallet], [electrum], [coldcard], [trezor], [ledger]