The Open Network (TON) is a high-performance Layer 1 blockchain originally developed by the popular messaging app Telegram, now fully community-driven under the TON Foundation. With Telegram officially recognizing TON as its preferred Web3 infrastructure, the integration of blockchain technology into everyday messaging is becoming a reality. At the heart of this ecosystem lies the TON wallet—a gateway that enables users to manage digital assets and interact seamlessly with decentralized applications (dApps) on the TON blockchain.
TON leverages a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism with advanced sharding technology, allowing it to process thousands of transactions per second across multiple parallel chains. This makes it one of the most scalable and efficient blockchains for mass adoption. Whether you're sending crypto like a text message or participating in decentralized finance (DeFi), a TON wallet is essential.
👉 Discover how easy it is to start using Web3 wallets today.
Understanding the Role of a TON Wallet
A TON wallet functions as an interface between users and the decentralized TON blockchain ledger. Each user account holds transaction records secured through cryptography. The wallet allows access to these assets, enabling activities such as sending and receiving tokens, staking, and interacting with dApps.
There are two primary types of TON wallets:
- Custodial wallets, where a third party manages private keys (e.g., Telegram’s @wallet).
- Non-custodial wallets, where users retain full control over their private keys (e.g., Tonkeeper, Boss Wallet).
Choosing the right wallet depends on your needs: convenience versus control.
How to Set Up a TON @wallet on Telegram
Telegram has integrated the @wallet bot directly into its messaging platform, making it one of the most accessible entry points into the TON ecosystem.
“We believe users should own their identity and assets. With TON Space, they now have the technology to make that convenient.” — John Hyman, Chief Investment Officer at Telegram
While TON Space, the upcoming self-custody version, is expected to launch soon, the current @wallet offers hosted storage—meaning Telegram manages the private keys on your behalf.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
- Open Telegram and search for
@wallet. - Start a chat and tap “Start” to begin setup.
- Grant permissions to add @wallet to your attachment menu.
- Once added, you’ll see the wallet icon when tapping the attachment (➕) button in any chat.
Your wallet is now active and ready for use.
Funding Your @wallet
You can deposit funds in two ways:
- Crypto Deposit:
From the wallet menu, select “Deposit,” choose your asset (supports Toncoin, Bitcoin, and ERC20 USDT), copy the provided address, and send funds from another wallet. - Fiat On-Ramp (Bank Top-Up):
Use the “Top-up” option to buy crypto directly with a credit card. The service supports over 30 fiat currencies, including USD and EUR.
Now that your wallet is funded, you're ready to explore its features.
👉 Learn how secure crypto on-ramps can simplify your Web3 journey.
Key Features of TON @wallet
The integration of financial tools within a messaging app unlocks powerful use cases.
Send Tips and Rewards in Chats
Just like tipping in Discord communities, @wallet allows users to reward others instantly. Did a friend share a hilarious meme? Send them a quick tip in Toncoin using just their Telegram username—no need to copy long wallet addresses.
Group admins can also run incentive programs, distributing rewards for participation or contests in real time.
Make Everyday Payments
@wallet simplifies peer-to-peer and merchant payments. Instead of complex public addresses, you can send Toncoin directly to any Telegram username. This seamless experience lowers barriers to crypto adoption and brings us closer to a cashless digital economy.
Buy Crypto via Fiat On-Ramp
With built-in fiat on-ramp support, users can purchase Toncoin and other supported assets directly from their bank accounts or credit cards. This eliminates the need to use external exchanges, making onboarding faster and more intuitive for newcomers.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Trading
@wallet includes an integrated P2P marketplace where users can create buy or sell orders for various cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies. Other users can browse listings and complete trades securely within the app—ideal for localized, borderless transactions without intermediaries.
Setting Up a Non-Custodial TON Wallet: Tonkeeper
For users who prefer full control over their assets, Tonkeeper is a leading non-custodial wallet option for the TON blockchain.
Unlike @wallet, Tonkeeper gives you ownership of your private keys—meaning only you have access to your funds. It supports advanced features such as staking, NFT management, and deep dApp integration.
How to Install and Configure Tonkeeper
- Visit the official TON wallets page and select Tonkeeper.
Download the app from:
- Google Play (Android)
- App Store (iOS)
- Chrome or Firefox extension (desktop)
- Launch the app and choose “Create Wallet.”
- Set a strong password.
- Write down and securely store your recovery phrase—this is critical for restoring access if you lose your device.
Once set up, your Tonkeeper wallet is ready to send, receive, and stake TON tokens.
Other Supported TON Wallets: Exploring Boss Wallet
Another versatile option is Boss Wallet, which supports multiple blockchains including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain (BSC), and now TON.
Key Features of Boss Wallet for TON Users
Multi-Chain Asset Management
Boss Wallet allows users to manage TON coins and TON-based tokens alongside assets from other networks—all within a single interface.
Seamless Transactions
Users can send and receive TON via QR code scanning or manual address input. Real-time transaction confirmations ensure transparency and reliability.
Market Insights
Stay informed with live price tracking and market trend data for Toncoin, helping users make better investment decisions.
Access to dApps
Equipped with a built-in decentralized browser, Boss Wallet lets users explore TON-powered dApps such as DEXs (decentralized exchanges), lending platforms, and NFT marketplaces without leaving the app.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between @wallet and Tonkeeper?
@wallet is custodial and integrated into Telegram, offering ease of use but limited control. Tonkeeper is non-custodial, giving users full ownership of their private keys and greater functionality.
Is my money safe in @wallet?
Since @wallet is custodial, Telegram manages your private keys. While convenient, it means you rely on their security measures. For maximum control, consider switching to a self-custody solution like Tonkeeper or awaiting TON Space.
Can I stake TON tokens?
Yes—non-custodial wallets like Tonkeeper support staking directly within the app, allowing you to earn rewards while helping secure the network.
Which fiat currencies can I use to buy TON?
The @wallet on-ramp supports over 30 fiat currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, and more—depending on your region.
Do I need a separate wallet for each blockchain?
Not necessarily. Multi-chain wallets like Boss Wallet let you manage assets across different networks—including TON—in one place.
When will TON Space launch?
While no official date has been confirmed beyond late 2025 expectations, TON Space promises to bring self-custody capabilities directly into Telegram, combining ease of use with full user sovereignty.
👉 See how next-gen wallets are shaping the future of digital ownership.
Final Thoughts
The convergence of messaging and blockchain through platforms like Telegram and The Open Network marks a pivotal moment in Web3 adoption. Whether you choose the simplicity of @wallet or the autonomy of Tonkeeper or Boss Wallet, entering the TON ecosystem has never been easier.
As TON continues to scale and integrate deeper into everyday communication tools, having a reliable wallet becomes not just useful—but essential. Always prioritize security, back up your recovery phrases, and stay informed about updates in this rapidly evolving space.
Remember: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Explore responsibly.