Everything you need to know about creating strong and secure passwords, as well as tips on password management.
Need a crypto wallet that gives you control of your assets? You can download Exodus here.
In this article:
How do I create a strong password?
The best passwords are random, and using a password manager is the easiest way to create them. These apps generate passwords up to 64 characters long, store them securely, and automatically fill them in when needed, ensuring your passwords stay safe.
If you choose not to use a password manager or need a good master password, here are some tips for creating secure passwords:
Avoid using easily guessed information like birthdays or names.
A combination of randomly selected words can make strong passwords that are easier to remember. For example, four random words are stronger than most passwords as long as they’re truly random.
If using symbols or mixed capitalization, break the patterns:
Capitalize random letters, not just the first.
Place numbers inside, not at the end.
Skip predictable substitutions like using '@' instead of 'a' or '$' instead of 's'.
Make the password at least 16 characters long.
Use non-English words if possible.
Never reuse passwords or variations of them.
How do I secure Exodus with a passcode or device lock?
Mobile
Exodus Mobile uses your device's built-in security settings. If your mobile device is protected by a passcode on iOS or screen lock on Android, you can use it to secure Exodus.
If your device also has biometrics enabled, such as Face ID (iOS only) or Touch ID, you can use those instead to secure Exodus.
Here's how to secure your Exodus Mobile wallet:
In Exodus Mobile, a) tap the Wallet icon, then b) swipe down to go to the profile screen.
Tap Settings.
Depending on how your device is secured, you can protect your wallet by toggling it on.
Device Lock: Available when a passcode or screen lock is set on your device.
If you don’t have a passcode or screen lock set on your device, you may see the option to enable Passcode Lock instead of Device Lock. Turning this on lets you set a numeric passcode within Exodus.
Face ID Lock: Available only on iOS when you have Face ID enabled on your device.
Changing the Face ID or Touch ID settings on your iOS device will automatically turn it off in Exodus.
Fingerprint Lock: Available when you have Touch ID enabled on your device.
Your Android device needs a fingerprint scanner to enable Touch ID.
Exodus on Android only supports securing with Touch ID, and Face ID is not supported.
Changing the fingerprint settings on your device will automatically disable Fingerprint Lock in Exodus. You'll need to unlock the wallet with the passcode or screen lock set on your device.
Once enabled, your wallet will be secured using the same authentication method as your device.
Desktop
To set a password in Desktop, you'll need to go through the backup process.
The password you create should be unique, following the tips for creating secure passwords.
In Exodus Desktop, click the Settings icon in the top right corner.
a) Click the Backup tab. b) Enter a strong and unique password. c) You'll see a prompt if caps lock is on, as passwords are case-sensitive. After entering your password, d) click Next.
a) Re-enter the password and b) click Next.
a) Check the box to confirm you understand the risks of sharing your secret key, then b) click View secret key.
a) Check the box to show your secret key and then write it down in the correct order. Double-check that they are spelled correctly. When you are finished writing down the secret key, put it in a secure place that only you can access and b) click Done.
We recommend writing down your 12-word secret key on more than one piece of paper, and keeping the copies in separate secure locations. This will prevent a single point of loss from events like fires, floods, etc.
Your secret key generates all your wallet’s addresses and private keys, so it's crucial to keep it safe
Do not store your secret key as an unencrypted digital copy, as digital information can be vulnerable to hackers. Learn more about how to keep your crypto safe.
Next, a) read the verification question carefully, b) select the correct answer, and c) click Done.
And that's it! Your desktop wallet is now password-protected, and your backup is complete.
Web3 Wallet
In Exodus Web3 Wallet, you will be prompted to create a password when setting up your new Web3 Wallet.
The password you create should be unique, following the tips for creating secure passwords.
If you want to change an existing password, please follow the steps in this guide: How do I reset my password or device lock?
When setting up your wallet, you will be asked to set a password. For more information on how to set up a new Web3 Wallet, see the guides below:
When prompted to create a password, a) type in a strong password. b) Your wallet will indicate the strength of your password with the color of the bar under the password, with red and yellow being the weakest and green being the strongest. c) You'll see a prompt if caps lock is on, as passwords are case-sensitive.
After entering a strong password, a) the bar below the password will be green. When you are done creating your password, click Next.
a) Re-enter your password. When the passwords match, you'll have the option to b) click Get Started.
Why doesn't my wallet have a password after restoring?
When you restore your wallet, your secret key will overwrite any existing wallet in Exodus, including its password. After restoring, your wallet will not have a password.
Because the secret key is your master key, it's all you need to restore your wallet. The password is not required when restoring, and it doesn't prevent someone from restoring your wallet if they have the secret key.
Your password protects your Exodus wallet and the local data on your device. For example, if someone steals your device, your password adds an extra layer of security, as the attacker can't open your wallet to view your secret key or steal your funds without the password.
After restoring your Exodus wallet, because the password is overwritten, it is important to set a new password to secure your wallet.
Why should I avoid saving passwords in my browser?
It's best to avoid saving passwords in your browser because if it's compromised, all your saved passwords are at risk.
Additionally, browsers don't use zero-knowledge encryption, meaning the company can access your passwords.
One of the best ways to keep track of passwords is with a dedicated password manager. For more information, visit: Use a password manager.