How to Set Up and Secure Your Exodus Wallet: Complete Guide

A clear, step-by-step walkthrough to download, install, and harden your Exodus wallet — desktop or mobile — using best practices for backups and security. (Keyword: Exodus wallet.)

Overview

The Exodus wallet is a popular non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet available for desktop and mobile. This guide covers: downloading the official app, performing the initial setup, protecting your seed phrase, enabling optional security features, and recovering your wallet if needed. Follow each step carefully to keep your funds safe.

Who this guide is for

Beginners who just downloaded Exodus, intermediate users who want to harden security, and returnees who need a step-by-step recovery checklist.

Step-by-step: Install & Set Up Exodus Wallet

Download the official app

Always download the Exodus wallet from official sources. Use the official website and verified stores to avoid fake apps.

  • Desktop: visit the official Exodus download page and choose your OS.
  • Mobile: install from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store — search exactly for "Exodus: Crypto Wallet".

Run the installer and create a new wallet

Open the app and follow the on-screen prompts to create a new wallet. You’ll be shown a 12- or 24-word recovery phrase — this is your lifeline.

Write down your recovery phrase

Write it on paper — never store it in plain text on a computer or cloud storage. Do not share it with anyone. Store multiple copies in secure locations.

Set a strong password (desktop)

Set a local password/passphrase for the desktop app to encrypt your wallet files. Make it long and unique. Consider a password manager for safe storage.

Enable optional protections

On mobile, enable device lock (biometrics/PIN). On desktop, enable a strong system password, and consider full-disk encryption for added safety.

Security Best Practices for Exodus Wallet

Keep software up to date

Always run the latest version of the Exodus wallet. Updates patch vulnerabilities and add improvements.

Protect your recovery phrase

Never photograph or copy the recovery phrase to cloud storage or messaging apps. Consider a steel backup plate or cryptosteel for fire/resistance.

Beware of phishing

Exodus will never ask for your 12/24-word phrase via email, chat, or popups. Double-check domain names and official links before downloading or clicking.

Use a hardware wallet for large balances

For long-term storage of significant funds, pair Exodus with a hardware wallet (Trezor, Ledger). This keeps private keys offline while letting you use Exodus as an interface.

Additional hardening

Backup & Recovery

Backing up the Exodus wallet properly ensures you can recover funds if your device fails or is lost.

1 — Write down the recovery phrase

Store it offline in two or three secure physical locations. Use fireproof/waterproof storage if available.

2 — Test recovery (optional but recommended)

Create a fresh install on a different device and import using your recovery phrase to confirm it works. Do this carefully and in a secure environment.

3 — Seed phrase alternatives

If you prefer, use an encrypted passphrase alongside your seed (BIP39 passphrase). Note: losing either the seed or passphrase will permanently lock funds.

FAQ — Exodus Wallet (Quick Answers)

Q: Is Exodus a custodial wallet?
A: No. Exodus is a non-custodial wallet: you control your private keys and recovery phrase.
Q: How do I restore my Exodus wallet?
A: Install Exodus on a new device, choose "Restore Wallet", and enter your 12/24-word recovery phrase following the exact order.
Q: Can I change my recovery phrase?
A: You cannot change an existing seed. To rotate your seed, create a new wallet and transfer funds to it, then securely backup the new phrase.
Q: What if I lose my recovery phrase?
A: Without the recovery phrase (and passphrase if used), you cannot recover the wallet. Treat the phrase like cash — store it offline.
Q: Is Exodus safe to use daily?
A: Yes for small and medium amounts. For large holdings, use a hardware wallet in combination with Exodus for better security.
Q: Can Exodus support hardware wallets?
A: Exodus integrates with certain hardware wallets to provide an additional layer of security while using Exodus as the interface.
Q: Does Exodus store my personal data?
A: Exodus is primarily non-custodial and does not have access to your private keys. Review the official privacy policy for details on telemetry and analytics.

Troubleshooting & Final Checklist