Public key
A key calculated from the private key with one-way maths. It lets the network check your signatures and is safe to share.
Public key in more detail
Every wallet is built on three linked pieces: a private key, a public key and an address. One must stay secret and two are safe to share.
The public key is calculated from the private key with one-way maths. Going forward is quick. Going backward, from public key to private key, is not possible in practice.
The public key lets the network check your signatures. It cannot create them.
All 128 terms · Checked against the lesson's sources on 8 October 2026.
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