Your BitBox02 hardware wallet uses a microSD card to create secure backups of your wallet information. It's crucial to use a compatible card to ensure your backups are reliable and your device functions smoothly. This card stores a direct, unencrypted copy of your wallet's recovery words. If you're curious about why we chose this method, you can read more about why microSD backups should not be encrypted by default.
Here’s what you need to know when selecting and preparing a microSD card for your BitBox02.
What type of microSD card do I need?
The BitBox02 is designed to work specifically with certain types of microSD cards:
- Supported Type: Standard SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) microSD cards are fully compatible.
- Unsupported Type: Newer SDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity) microSD cards are not supported and will not work with the BitBox02.
- Size: Don't worry about storage capacity! The backup file is incredibly small, so even the lowest-capacity SDHC card you can find will work perfectly. There's no minimum size requirement.
Recommended cards for reliability
While many SDHC cards will work, we recommend choosing one from a well-known, reputable brand for the best reliability and longevity. Consider brands like:
- SanDisk
- Transcend
Tip: Avoid cards advertised as "high-speed" or with very high-speed class ratings. While they might seem better, they can occasionally cause compatibility issues. A standard card with Speed Class 10 or lower is the ideal choice for the BitBox02.
Formatting your microSD card correctly
Before using a new microSD card with your BitBox02, make sure it's formatted with the correct file system.
- Required File System: Use MS-DOS (FAT) or vFAT. Most standard SDHC cards come pre-formatted this way.
- How to Format: If your card isn't already using FAT, you'll need to format it on a computer. Be sure to select MS-DOS (FAT) or FAT32 during the formatting process.
Essential security practices
Your microSD card backup is vital. Follow these steps to keep it secure:
- Keep it Isolated: Once formatted and used with your BitBox02 for a backup, never plug the microSD card into your computer or any other device. Only use it with your BitBox02 to prevent potential exposure to malware or accidental data corruption.
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Check Backup Integrity: Periodically ensuring your backup remains valid is crucial. Avoid common pitfalls like neglecting to verify your backup's integrity over time, as discussed in Mistake #5
Mistake #5 on our blog
By choosing the right type of card and following these simple guidelines, you can be confident that your BitBox02 backup is secure and reliable!