This guide explains everything you need to know about creating and securing your BitBox02 wallet backup to keep your cryptocurrency safe.
Your wallet backup is the most critical element for securing your crypto assets. Understanding how it works is the first step toward achieving peace of mind and true self-custody. For a deep dive into common mistakes, read our article on how Bitcoin backups work.
What is a wallet backup?
A wallet backup is a copy of your "master key," which is most commonly a set of 12 or 24 recovery words. The BitBox02 generates all your private keys and public addresses from this single source. This means that backing up this master key once is enough to recover your entire wallet, including all past and future transactions.
You do not need to create a new backup after every transaction. The initial backup you create when you set up your BitBox02 contains everything needed to regenerate all your addresses and keys, making it valid forever.
Your BitBox02 backup methods
The BitBox02 offers two primary backup methods during the initial setup, giving you a mix of convenience and universal compatibility.
microSD card backup
During setup, your BitBox02 automatically saves a backup file to the included microSD card. This file is not encrypted, which makes recovery straightforward. For your security, you should never insert the microSD card into any device other than a BitBox02. If you must access the recovery words from the file on a computer, only use our official open-source Backup Recovery Tool in an emergency.
24 recovery words
You also have the option to display your 24 recovery words on the BitBox02 screen and write them down. This method is universal, meaning these words can be used to restore your wallet on almost any other hardware or software wallet. For maximum durability against fire or water damage, you can stamp these words into a metal backup solution.
How to securely store your backups
Properly storing your backups is just as important as creating them. Your goal is to protect them from both loss and theft. For a detailed overview, see our guide on 4 proven methods to keep your Bitcoin backup safe.
Rule 1: Create at least two backups
Never rely on a single backup. It is highly recommended to have at least two copies. A good strategy is to use both methods: the microSD card and a written copy of your 24 recovery words. This gives you redundancy in case one is lost, damaged, or stolen.
Rule 2: Store them in separate, secure locations
Keeping your backups in different physical locations minimizes risk. For example, you could keep one at home in a fireproof safe and another in a secure bank deposit box. This protects you from losing everything in a single event like a fire or theft.
Rule 3: Never store them digitally
Your recovery words should never be stored on a computer, phone, or any cloud service like Google Drive or Dropbox. Never take a picture of them. Storing your backup in any digital format makes it highly vulnerable to being stolen by hackers or malware.
Rule 4: Keep them confidential
Do not share your recovery words or backup files with anyone. Anyone who has access to your backup has full access to your funds. Be discreet about the existence and location of your backups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to update my backup after transacting?
No. The initial backup you create is all you need. It secures your master seed, which can generate every key and address for your wallet, including any future ones. The only time you might need a new backup is if you add an optional passphrase, which creates a new, separate wallet.
What happens if I lose my BitBox02 AND my backups?
If your BitBox02 is lost or broken and you do not have a backup, your funds cannot be recovered. There is no support team that can reset a password or help you regain access. This is the reality of self-custody, which is why creating and securing your backups is the most important step you will take.
How do I check if my backup still works?
You can periodically verify your backups to ensure they are intact and accessible. The BitBoxApp allows you to check your microSD card backup without exposing your keys. For more information, please see our microSD guides.
Is the optional passphrase (25th word) saved in my backup?
No. The optional passphrase is never saved on the BitBox02 or in your microSD card backup file. It is a separate layer of security that you must remember or store securely on your own. If you lose your passphrase, you will lose access to the funds in that specific wallet forever, even if you have your 24 recovery words. To learn more, read our optional passphrase guides.