> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://vincechain.gitbook.io/vince-chain-documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://vincechain.gitbook.io/vince-chain-documentation/3.-vince-chain-protocols/concepts/keyring/operating-systems-os-backends.md).

# Operating Systems (OS) Backends

This type of backend storage for private keys relies on operating system-specific default protocols to handle key storage efficiently and securely. The sub-systems of popular operating systems handle password prompts, private key storage, and user activities based on policies set by the user.

Below are some operating systems and their respective managers:

* macOS (from Mac OS 8.6): [Keychain](https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/keychain-access/welcome/mac)
* Windows: [Credentials Management API](https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/win32/secauthn/credentials-management)
* GNU/Linux: GNU/Linux distributions that use GNOME as the default desktop environment typically come with [Seahorse](https://wiki.gnome.org/Apps/Seahorse). 
* [Kwallet](https://api.kde.org/frameworks/kwallet/html/index.html): Users of KDE-based software distros use the [KDE Wallet Manager](https://userbase.kde.org/KDE_Wallet_Manager).

Other recommended private key managers are file and pass

<br>