How to use the Core wallet? (Avalanche ecosystem)

Setting Up the Core Wallet

1. Visit the official Core wallet website and download the desktop application compatible with your operating system—Windows, macOS, or Linux.

2. Install the application following the on-screen instructions without modifying default directories unless required for security policies.

3. Launch the app and select “Create a New Wallet” to initiate the setup process.

4. Write down the 12-word recovery phrase in the exact order displayed and store it offline using physical media like metal backup sheets.

5. Confirm the seed phrase by selecting words in sequence as prompted to verify correct recording.

Connecting to Avalanche Networks

1. Open the network settings panel from the wallet’s main interface and locate the “Add Network” option.

2. Input the Avalanche C-Chain RPC URL: https://api.avax.network/ext/bc/C/rpc.

3. Enter the chain ID: 43114, and set the currency symbol to AVAX.

4. Assign a custom name such as “Avalanche Mainnet” for easy identification among multiple networks.

5. Save the configuration and confirm that the wallet displays the correct balance after syncing completes.

Receiving and Sending AVAX Tokens

1. Click the “Receive” button to generate a new C-Chain address, which starts with “0x” and is fully EVM-compatible.

2. Share this address only with trusted parties; never disclose private keys or seed phrases during transfers.

3. To send AVAX, paste the recipient’s address into the “Send” field and specify the amount in AVAX units.

4. Adjust gas fees manually if network congestion is high—Core wallet defaults to standard priority but allows custom Gwei values.

5. Review all transaction details including destination, amount, and fee before confirming with your wallet password or hardware device prompt.

Managing Subnets and Custom Chains

1. Access the Subnet Manager tab to view deployed subnets like DFK Chain, Benqi, or Trader Joe’s custom chains.

2. Import a subnet by entering its genesis file path or pasting its JSON configuration directly into the import dialog.

3. Activate the subnet by toggling its status and waiting for node synchronization to reach 100%.

4. Once active, the wallet displays balances and transaction history specific to that subnet’s native token.

5. Export subnet configurations as encrypted JSON files for backup or migration across devices.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. If the wallet fails to sync, check firewall settings and ensure outbound HTTPS traffic is permitted on port 443.

2. A blank balance despite confirmed deposits may indicate incorrect network selection—verify the active chain matches the deposit network.

3. Transaction rejections often stem from insufficient AVAX for gas; maintain at least 0.01 AVAX in your wallet for basic operations.

4. Seed phrase recovery failures usually result from typos or incorrect word ordering—cross-check against the official BIP-39 English word list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use Core wallet with Ledger hardware devices?Yes, Core wallet supports Ledger Nano S and X via USB connection. Enable Ethereum app on the device and toggle “Contract Data” in Ledger Live settings before initiating transactions.

Q: Does Core wallet support staking AVAX directly?No, Core wallet does not provide built-in staking interfaces. Users must delegate through Avalanche’s official staking portal or third-party validators using exported addresses.

Q: Is it safe to store NFTs in Core wallet?Yes, Core wallet supports ERC-721 and ERC-1155 tokens on the C-Chain. Ensure the NFT contract address is verified and matches listings on Snowtrace or AvaxScan.

Q: Why does my transaction show “Pending” indefinitely?This occurs when gas price is set too low relative to current network conditions. Cancel the pending transaction using the same nonce with a higher fee, or wait for natural inclusion during lulls in activity.