Security

Multisig

A wallet setup that requires several private keys to approve a transaction instead of just one.

Multisig, short for multi-signature, splits control across keys. A common setup is 2-of-3: any two of three keyholders must sign before funds move. No single key — or single stolen laptop — can spend on its own.

Companies use it so no one employee can run off with the treasury. Individuals use it to remove a single point of failure: keep keys in three places, and losing one doesn't lock you out. The trade-off is more setup and more keys to manage.

Related terms