Unchained.com, the official US Collaborative Custody partner of Bitcoin Magazine, offers a unique approach to securing your bitcoin through multisig wallets. When it comes to managing your bitcoin keys, you have the option to set up a multisig wallet either by yourself or in collaboration with others. Both approaches have their own set of advantages and trade-offs.
If you choose to go the DIY route, you have the freedom to customize the structure of your multisig wallet to suit your needs. Using free and open source wallet software, such as Caravan, Sparrow Wallet, or Electrum, you can combine extended public keys (xpubs) to create the multisig quorum you desire. This approach allows for greater privacy and control over your bitcoin.
On the other hand, collaborative custody multisig involves working with a partner, such as Unchained, to set up and manage your multisig wallet. By collaborating with a trusted partner, you can simplify the setup process and have access to expert support for wallet maintenance, recovery, and security. Collaborative custody also provides a smoother experience when it comes to inheritance planning, ensuring that your beneficiaries can easily access your bitcoin in the event of your passing.
While collaborative custody may involve sharing some information with your partner, it offers convenience and peace of mind in managing your bitcoin. Unchained’s Inheritance Protocol, for example, guides users through the process of setting up secure recovery for their bitcoin, making it easy for beneficiaries to access the funds without needing technical expertise.
Ultimately, the decision between DIY multisig and collaborative custody multisig depends on your goals and preferences. If you prioritize privacy and technical control, DIY multisig may be the best option for you. However, if you value convenience, expert support, and seamless inheritance planning, collaborative custody multisig with a trusted partner like Unchained could be the ideal choice for securing your bitcoin assets.