How to recover your Jaxx Wallet on your mobile device after a factory reset.
Factory resetting a phone can be a necessary step for various reasons, ranging from resolving performance issues to preparing a device for resale. However, if you’ve used your mobile device to manage your cryptocurrency via the Jaxx Wallet, a factory reset means you’ll need to restore your wallet to regain access to your funds. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process to help you safely and effectively recover your Jaxx Wallet after a phone factory reset.
Preparing for Wallet Restoration
Before the Reset:
Ideally, you should always be prepared for potential data loss scenarios. Ensure that you have the following before you perform a factory reset:
- Backup your 12-word seed phrase: Jaxx Wallet generates a 12-word backup seed phrase when you first set up your wallet. This phrase is essential for restoring your wallet. It should be written down and stored securely in a place accessible to you but safe from potential threats.
Step 1: Reinstall Jaxx Wallet
After the factory reset, your phone will be in a state as if it just came out of the box, with all apps and data removed. The first step is to reinstall the Jaxx Wallet:
- Download from a Trusted Source: Navigate to the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store, depending on your device. Search for “Jaxx Liberty Wallet” and ensure you’re downloading the official app developed by Decentral Inc.
Step 2: Initiate the Restoration Process
Once Jaxx Wallet is reinstalled on your device, you’ll need to open the app and start the restoration process:
- Open Jaxx Wallet: Launch the app.
- Choose ‘Restore Wallet’: Upon opening, the app will prompt you to either create a new wallet or restore an existing one. Choose to restore your wallet.
- Enter Your 12-Word Seed Phrase: You will be prompted to enter the 12-word backup seed phrase. Input each word carefully in the order it was originally provided. Accuracy is crucial here, as even a single mistake can prevent you from restoring your wallet correctly.
Step 3: Set Up Security Features
After successfully entering your seed phrase, your wallet should now have access to your funds, but before proceeding further, it’s essential to secure your wallet:
- Create a New PIN: It’s a good practice to set up a new PIN for accessing your wallet. This adds an extra layer of security.
- Review Security Settings: Check other security settings available in the Jaxx Wallet app to enhance your wallet’s security. Consider features such as setting up a transaction password if available.
Step 4: Verify Wallet Restoration
Once your wallet is restored, and security measures are in place:
- Check Your Balance: Ensure that all previously held cryptocurrencies are visible in your wallet. It might take some time for the wallet to synchronize with blockchain networks.
- Test a Transaction: If possible, test sending a small amount of cryptocurrency to another wallet to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Step 5: Back Up Your Wallet Again
Restoring your wallet is a critical reminder of the importance of regular backups:
- Reconfirm Your Seed Phrase: Even though you just used your seed phrase, it’s a good opportunity to ensure it’s stored correctly and securely.
- Consider Multiple Backup Locations: Having more than one secure location for your seed phrase can safeguard against the loss of access to one of the locations.
Conclusion
Restoring your Jaxx Wallet after a phone factory reset is straightforward, provided you have prepared adequately by securing your 12-word seed phrase. This guide should help you regain access to your funds and secure them for future use. Remember, the security of your cryptocurrency holdings is paramount, and the responsibility largely lies in how well you manage and secure your wallet’s backup details.