Backing up your wallet properly is essential for cryptocurrency security. If you lose access to your device, a proper backup is the only way to recover your funds.
What You Need to Backup
The most critical piece of information is your seed phrase (also called recovery phrase or mnemonic). This is typically 12 or 24 words that can regenerate your entire wallet, including all accounts and private keys.
With your seed phrase, you can:
- Restore your wallet on any compatible app or device
- Recover all accounts derived from that seed
- Access your funds even if you lose your device
How to Backup Your Seed Phrase
Finding Your Seed Phrase
Your wallet should have shown you a seed phrase when you first created it. If you need to view it again:
- MetaMask: Settings → Security & Privacy → Reveal Secret Recovery Phrase
- Trust Wallet: Settings → Wallets → Info → Show Recovery Phrase
- Hardware wallets: You should have recorded this during initial setup
Recording Your Backup
- Write down each word in the exact order shown
- Use pen (not pencil) on durable paper
- Double-check each word and its spelling
- Verify by reading back through the list
- Store in a secure, private location
Multiple Copies
Create 2-3 copies of your seed phrase backup:
- One at home in a secure location
- One in a different physical location (safe deposit box, trusted family member)
- Consider a metal backup for fire/water protection
Backup Storage Options
Paper Backup
Simple and effective for most users:
- Use acid-free paper for longevity
- Consider laminating for water protection
- Store in a fireproof safe or container
- Don't label it obviously (no “crypto seed phrase”)
Metal Backup
For maximum durability:
- Steel plates resistant to fire (up to 1500°C)
- Waterproof and corrosion resistant
- Products like Cryptosteel, Billfodl, Blockplate
- Worth the investment for significant holdings
What NOT to Do
- Never photograph your seed phrase
- Never type it into any computer, phone, or website
- Never store in email, cloud storage, or password managers
- Never share with anyone
- Never keep only one copy
Recovering Your Wallet
If you need to restore your wallet (new device, lost access, etc.):
On MetaMask
- Install MetaMask on your new device
- Select “Import using Secret Recovery Phrase”
- Enter your 12 or 24 words in order
- Create a new password
- Your accounts and balances will restore
On Mobile Wallets
- Install the wallet app
- Choose “Import” or “Restore wallet”
- Enter your seed phrase
- Set up security (PIN, biometrics)
On Hardware Wallets
- Initialize the device as a new or recovered wallet
- Select recovery/restore option
- Enter words using the device's interface
- Set a new PIN
After Recovery
Once restored, verify everything is correct:
- Check that your balance appears
- Verify your address matches your records
- Add any custom networks (like ETC) that you used before
- Re-import any custom tokens
Derivation Paths
The same seed phrase can generate different addresses depending on the “derivation path” used. Most wallets use standard paths, but if your accounts don't appear after recovery:
- Check if the wallet uses a non-standard path
- Some wallets let you specify the derivation path manually
- ETC typically uses the same path as ETH: m/44'/60'/0'/0
Testing Your Backup
It's wise to verify your backup works before you need it:
- Install a wallet app on a different device or browser
- Recover using your seed phrase
- Verify your accounts and balances appear
- Uninstall the test wallet when done
This ensures your backup is accurate and you know the recovery process.
Legacy Wallet Files
Some older wallets used keystore files (JSON files with encrypted private keys). If you have these:
- Back up the file itself
- Remember or store the password separately
- Consider migrating to a seed-phrase-based wallet
Backup Checklist
- Seed phrase written on paper
- Words verified for accuracy
- Multiple copies in different locations
- No digital copies anywhere
- Storage locations are secure and private
- Backup tested with recovery
- Consider metal backup for significant holdings
Summary
Your seed phrase is your wallet. Protect it as you would protect the assets it secures. With a proper backup, you can always recover your funds regardless of what happens to your devices.