A hardware wallet is a physical device designed to securely store cryptocurrency private keys offline. Unlike software wallets, which are connected to the internet and can be vulnerable to hacking, hardware wallets provide a safer way to manage digital assets. They often resemble USB drives and require a secure PIN for access. These wallets support various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many others. Users can easily send and receive funds while keeping their private keys protected. Popular brands include Ledger and Trezor, both known for their robust security features and user-friendly interfaces.