What this tool does
Converts private keys between common formats (PKCS#1, PKCS#8, PEM/DER) and explains compatibility.
This page focuses on practical, step‑by‑step usage for **Private Key Converter**, with clear examples and common pitfalls.
When you should use it
Use it when one tool expects a different key container or when importing/exporting keys.
How to use
- Paste the key (use test keys).
- Choose target format.
- Copy the converted output and validate with your target library.
Quick example
Example: Convert an RSA PKCS#1 key to PKCS#8 for a framework that requires PKCS#8.
Notes
Private keys are secrets—prefer doing conversion offline.
Private Key Converter
Convert between different private key formats: HEX, WIF, WIFC, BIP38 and more
Enter Private Key
Private Key Format Reference
Understanding different private key formats
HEX Format
Format: 64 hexadecimal characters (0-9, A-F)
Example: 1E99423A4ED27608A15A2616A2B0E9E52CED330AC530EDCC32C8FFC6A526AEDD
Usage: Raw private key representation
WIF (Wallet Import Format)
Format: Base58Check encoded, starts with '5', 'K', or 'L'
Example: 5J3mBbAH58CpQ3Y5RNJpUKPE62SQ5tfcvU2JpbnkeyhfsYB1Jcn
Usage: Standard Bitcoin private key format
WIFC (Compressed)
Format: WIF with compressed public key, starts with 'K' or 'L'
Example: L4rK1yDtCWekvXuE6oXD9jCYfFNV2cWRpVuPLBcCU2z8TrisoyY1
Usage: Compressed address format
BIP38 Encrypted
Format: Encrypted private key, starts with '6P'
Example: 6PRVWUbkzzsbcVac2qwfssoUJAN1Xhrg6bNk8J7Nzm5H7kxEbn2Nh2ZoGg
Usage: Password-protected private keys
Critical Security Warning
DO NOT enter private keys that control real funds. This is for educational purposes only.
All conversions happen locally in your browser. No data is sent to our servers.
Browser-based tools have inherent security risks. Use with caution.
Private Key Security
Private keys should never be shared or entered into websites.
For real keys, use air-gapped computers and trusted offline tools.
Use hardware wallets for secure key management and storage.
Never store private keys digitally or in cloud services.
Technical Information
Base58Check Encoding
WIF and WIFC formats use Base58Check encoding which includes:
- Version byte (0x80 for mainnet)
- Private key bytes (32 bytes)
- Compression flag (0x01 for compressed)
- Checksum (first 4 bytes of double SHA256)
BIP38 Encryption
BIP38 provides password-based encryption for private keys:
- Uses scrypt for key derivation
- EC multiply or non-EC methods
- Includes owner entropy and lot/sequence numbers
- Passphrase required for decryption
FAQ
Is Private Key Converter encryption?
No. It is primarily an analysis/encoding utility. If you need confidentiality, use a real encryption scheme and manage keys properly.
What should I do if the input fails to decode/parse?
Start by checking for missing padding, wrong alphabet/variant, or extra whitespace. If the data looks multi-layered, try decoding step-by-step (e.g., URL decode → Base64 decode).
Can I use this with real wallet secrets?
Only if you’re in a secure/offline environment. Seed phrases, keystores, and private keys can control funds; treat them as extremely sensitive.