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I think it is possible to generate keys in a offline computer and sign. To create a transaction I need input transactions detail, and somehow I have to transfer signed transaction from offline computer to a online computer to relay the transaction.

Is it possible to do this without using USB storage? I can use keyboard, or barcode reader to transfer input transaction hash to offline computer and signed transaction back to online computer. So that private key stays with offline computer.

Could you provide step-by-step instructions to do this, with any required error check / correction ?

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I will set 100 points bounty once this question is eligible for bounty.. – vi.su. Mar 4 at 4:52
As long as offline computer is able to sign message and generate a QR Code, the process should be very straightforward. – John Smith Mar 5 at 1:39

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You're correct that the offline node needs to how to claim its funds, so it can't be totally isolated.

Currently, the most mature offline wallet solution is through a client called Bitcoin Armory. Here's what your workflow looks like with offline wallets:

Online node makes transaction -> USB key -> Offline computer signs transaction -> USB key -> Online node broadcasts transaction

You can use Windows, Linux, or Mac for your offline wallet, but I'd recommend Linux, as it's difficult to disable AutoRun/AutoPlay on Windows.

Download:

This page explains offline transactions in great detail.

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thanks for the reference. is it possible to skip "USB drive" part? – vi.su. Mar 4 at 11:23
@vi.su. You need some way to get the inputs/index onto the offline computer, and some way to get the signed transactions out. You could do it by manually typing them out, but that seems overly difficult. – Nick ODell Mar 4 at 15:56

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