Setting up your BitBox02 is a fast and easy process. Follow these steps to initialize your hardware wallet and secure your crypto.


What you'll need:

  • Your BitBox02 device
  • The included microSD card
  • A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or Android smartphone
  • An internet connection to download the BitBoxApp

Step 1: Get the BitBoxApp

First, download and install the BitBoxApp on your computer or Android phone.

  1. Go to the official download page: bitbox.swiss/download
  2. Select the version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, or Android).
  3. Install and open the app.

Step 2: Connect your BitBox02

  1. Insert the included microSD card into your BitBox02.
  2. Plug the device into your computer or phone using the provided cable and adapter if needed.
  3. The device will power on, and the BitBoxApp will automatically guide you.

Step 3: Follow the setup in the app

The app will walk you through the entire initialization. You will be prompted to:

  1. Install firmware: If it's a new device, the app will prompt you to install the latest firmware for the most up-to-date security. Follow the prompts to complete the installation. Your device will restart.
  2. Choose display orientation: Touch the side of the device that is most convenient for you.
  1. Confirm pairing code: Verify that the code shown in the app matches the one on your BitBox02 screen.
  1. Create or restore a wallet: Choose "Create wallet" for a new setup or "Restore from backup" to recover an existing one.

For advanced options, like creating a 12-word recovery phrase instead of the standard 24 words, or skipping the microSD card backup to write down your seed phrase manually, see our guide on advanced backup options. 

 
  1. Name your wallet: Give your wallet a name you will recognize.
  1. Set your device password: Enter a password using the device's touch sensors.
    1. Important: This password cannot be changed. To set a new one, you must reset the device, which requires restoring your funds from your backup.
  1. Create your wallet backup: The app will save a backup to the microSD card. Confirm the date on your device to proceed.

Step 4: Secure your backup

Once setup is complete, remove the microSD card from your BitBox02. Store the card in a secret and highly secure location, separate from your device.

Crucial: The backup on this card is not password-protected by default. Anyone with physical access to the card can access your funds. This design prioritizes easier recovery. You can read more about this in our blog post: Why microSD backups should not be encrypted by default 

 

You're all set!

Your BitBox02 is now ready to send and receive cryptocurrency securely.


Video guide

We’ve also created a video tutorial for additional clarification. Please note that some visuals may differ from the current app due to updates, but the overall steps remain the same.