# Private Keys {% hint style="info" %} Disambiguation: [Seed Phrase vs Private Key](/glossary/disambiguation/seed-phrase-vs-private-key.md) {% endhint %} A **Private Key** is a long string of letters and numbers that is used to access and manage a [self-custody wallet](/glossary/definitions/self-custody-wallets.md). It is typically a 64-character hexadecimal code that is generated along with the wallet's address. The private key is used to sign transactions on the [blockchain](/glossary/definitions/decentralization/blockchains.md), so it is important to keep it safe and secure. The private key is an integral part of the cryptography that underpins blockchain technology. It is a piece of secret information that only the owner of the wallet knows, and it is used to prove ownership of the wallet and the funds it contains. When a user wants to make a transaction on the blockchain, they use their private key to sign the transaction. This is a mathematical process that proves that the transaction is coming from the wallet's owner and has not been tampered with. The signed transaction is then broadcast to the network, where it is validated and added to the blockchain. Because the private key is such an important piece of information, it should be kept secret. If someone were to gain access to your private key, they would be able to access and potentially steal your funds. The de-facto recommendation is to use a secure wallet and keep your private key offline if possible. --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.allforone.app/glossary/definitions/self-custody-wallets/private-keys.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.