Set up a Bitcoin wallet using its official instructions, create a fresh backup yourself, record the recovery phrase in the exact order shown, and keep that record private and offline. The phrase may restore access to the wallet, so anyone who obtains it may be able to access the associated funds.
Choose a wallet that fits how you plan to use Bitcoin
A software wallet on a phone or computer can be convenient for everyday use. Bitcoin.org advises keeping only small amounts on these devices and describes hardware wallets as a way to balance security with ease of use. It says, “Hardware wallets are the best balance between very high security and ease of use.” Read its broader wallet security guidance before deciding.
A hardware wallet is an option to consider if you want greater separation between your keys and internet-connected devices. It does not eliminate risks such as theft, social engineering, or mistakes when recording or storing a backup. The right choice depends on the amount involved, your security needs, and whether you can keep a physical backup both safe and accessible.
Set up the wallet and create your own backup
- Get the wallet from its official source. Use the wallet provider’s official website or a verified app-store listing, then follow that wallet’s setup instructions.
- Initialize it yourself. Let the wallet generate a new recovery phrase as part of its setup. Do not use a phrase supplied by another person, a seller, a website, or a preconfigured device.
- Record the phrase using the wallet’s backup method. Write each word exactly as displayed and in the same sequence. If the wallet provides backup cards, use them as instructed.
- Complete the backup check, if offered. Some wallets ask you to confirm selected words or verify the backup. Follow the wallet’s own process so you can catch recording errors before relying on the backup.
A recovery phrase is not an ordinary password: it can be used to restore a wallet, and whoever can read or copy it may be able to access the funds. Keep it to yourself. Trezor states in its wallet backup guide, “We will never ask for your wallet backup!” Treat an unsolicited request from a person or service claiming to help as a warning sign.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- BITCOIN EXCLUSIVE, PHONE VERIFICATION: Bitkey is designed from the ground up exclusively for bitcoin — a dedicated hardware wallet for secure bitcoin storage. Approve transactions with a tap using your phone and NFC. No device screen is required.
- SELF-CUSTODY, NO EXCHANGE OR CUSTODIAN REQUIRED: You hold two of the three keys in the Bitkey system – one on your phone and one on your Bitkey device. The third is stored on Bitkey’s server and cannot move your bitcoin on its own.
- NO SEED PHRASE: Set up and use Bitkey without creating or storing a seed phrase.
- 2-of-3 MULTISIG: Three keys are stored separately across your phone, Bitkey device, and Bitkey’s server. Any two keys are required to move your bitcoin.
- BUILT-IN RECOVERY: Encrypted backup and recovery tools can help you regain access if you lose your phone or Bitkey device. You can also designate a Recovery Contact.
Keep the recovery phrase private and offline
Keep the written record offline. Do not photograph it, email it, save it in a cloud note or password manager, or type it into a phone or computer connected to the internet. A digital copy can be exposed through compromised accounts, devices, or backups. Ledger’s recovery phrase security guide likewise recommends offline handling and careful physical storage.
Choose a private storage place where the record is protected from both unauthorized access and damage. A durable metal backup may help protect against some forms of physical damage, but it does not protect the words from someone who can see or steal the record. Trezor discusses its backup cards and metal backup options in its official guide; product-specific durability claims should be checked with the manufacturer.
Rank #2
- Unparalleled Security: Protect your assets NDA-free EAL 6+ Secure Element, offering robust defense and complete transparency
- Simple & Secure Interface: Manage your digital assets easily with a clear OLED screen for secure on-device confirmations
- Supports 1000s of Coins & Tokens: Securely handle thousands of assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more, all in one wallet
- Effortless Asset Management: Monitor and transact seamlessly with Trezor Suite, our intuitive desktop and mobile app
- Enhanced Backup Solution: Rest assured with Multi-share Backup, eliminating single points of failure for secure cold wallet recovery
Avoid improvised safeguards that make recovery harder, such as dividing the phrase into arbitrary pieces and hiding them separately. If your wallet supports an advanced multi-share backup format, use it only as documented for that wallet and make sure you understand how recovery works.
Know the recovery format before restoring
Recovery phrases are not all interchangeable. For example, Trezor documents BIP39 backups of 12 or 24 words and SLIP39 backups of 20 words, with available formats depending on the device. These are format specifications, not a promise that a phrase will restore in every wallet. Check the specific wallet’s documentation before attempting a restore or deciding whether another device is compatible. Trezor explains the distinctions in its guide to 12-, 20-, and 24-word backups.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- Unparalleled Security: Protect your assets with EAL 6+ Secure Element, offering robust defense and complete transparency
- Simple & Secure Interface: Manage your digital assets easily with a clear OLED screen for secure on-device confirmations
- Supports 1000s of Coins & Tokens: Securely handle thousands of assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more, all in one wallet
- Effortless Asset Management: Monitor and transact seamlessly with Trezor Suite, our intuitive desktop and mobile app
- Enhanced Backup Solution: Multi-share Backup eliminates single points of failure for secure cold wallet recovery
If the phrase may have been exposed
If someone has seen, photographed, or copied the phrase, treat the wallet as compromised. Use the wallet provider’s official instructions to create a new wallet and move funds to it, taking care not to enter the exposed phrase into an untrusted site, app, or device. Do not disclose the phrase to anyone offering to recover funds or secure the wallet. Recovery steps differ by wallet, so follow the provider’s official guidance for your specific device and backup format.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Effortlessly build your crypto portfolio via the all in one Ledger Wallet app: buy, sell, send, receive, swap, stake and more across popular blockchains. 15,000+ coins & tokens in a single dashboard. Keep a close eye on the market. Compare service providers. Track performance. Get timely alerts. Build your portfolio with confidence.
- Effortlessly build your crypto portfolio via the all in one Ledger Wallet app: buy, sell, send, receive, swap, stake and more across popular blockchains. 15,000+ coins & tokens in a single dashboard. Keep a close eye on the market. Compare service providers. Track performance. Get timely alerts. Build your portfolio with confidence.
- Enjoy Bluetooth connectivity, iOS access, and hours of battery use with this mobile-first, secure backup signer. Freedom you can depend on.
- Genuine Check: confirm your signer is authentic during setup with the Ledger Wallet app.
- Protect your signer: keep it in mint condition at all times with a bespoke Pod or Case to avoid scratches and everyday wear and tear.
Rank #4
- Dual-chip architecture for maximum protection: The next-gen, fully auditable TROPIC01 chip works alongside a certified EAL6+ Secure Element—completely NDA-free—to deliver radically transparent, industry-leading defense against physical attacks.
- Quantum-ready security: Get protection against future threats with the first-ever hardware wallet designed with quantum-ready architecture.
- See every detail with confidence: Our largest high-resolution color touchscreen makes it easy to navigate your assets, review transactions and manage your coins with clarity.
- Wireless freedom with encrypted Bluetooth control: Manage, buy, swap and stake securely using Trezor Suite on desktop or mobile. Qi2-compatible wireless charging keeps your Trezor powered up. No cables required—security meets convenience.
- Works seamlessly with Android, iOS and desktop: Connect wirelessly or via USB-C to your phone or computer. Manage your crypto anywhere with our companion Trezor Suite app.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
