Output Descriptor
An output descriptor is a structured description of how a Bitcoin wallet derives and recognizes its addresses. It records script type, keys, derivation paths, and multisig rules so wallet software can rebuild the same wallet view.
How It Works
A descriptor tells wallet software what to look for on-chain. In singlesig it may describe one extended public key, an address type, and a derivation path. In multisig it records the cosigner keys and the rule, such as 2-of-3.
This matters because seed words alone may not rebuild a multisig wallet. The wallet needs to know which keys belong together and what script type was used. Without the descriptor, recovery can turn into detective work.
Export descriptors from Sparrow, Bitcoin Core, or your coordinator after setup. Store copies with your recovery instructions. They do not replace seeds. They explain the wallet.
Key Points
- Describes how wallet addresses are derived and recognized
- Makes watch-only wallet and multisig recovery much easier
- Often contains xpubs and derivation paths, not private keys
- Reveals wallet metadata and should not be posted publicly
- Should be backed up whenever you create or change a wallet