Exodus Wallet: Installation, Features, and Security Guide
A concise walkthrough for installing Exodus (desktop & mobile), key features you’ll use, and practical security steps to protect your crypto.
1. Quick overview (What is Exodus?)
1.1 High-level
Exodus is a user-friendly, non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet available for desktop, mobile and web. You control your private keys and recovery phrase; Exodus acts as the interface to many blockchains and built-in services (swap, staking, Web3 access).
Key official resources and product downloads are maintained on the Exodus site and related support pages. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
2. Installation — step-by-step
2.1 Choose your platform
- Desktop (Windows / macOS / Linux) — download the installer from Exodus’ official download page.
- Mobile (iOS / Android) — use the official App Store or Google Play links to avoid fake apps.
2.2 Desktop installation (example: Windows / macOS)
- Go to the Exodus download page and choose your OS. (Always confirm the domain is
exodus.com
.) :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts. After launch, create a new wallet or restore using a recovery phrase.
- Set a strong local password when prompted and write down the 12-word (or 24-word if shown) secret key on paper — offline. See backup guidelines in the support center. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
2.3 Mobile installation
- Open the official app store page for Exodus and install the app. Confirm developer/publisher details match Exodus Movement.
- Open the app, create or restore a wallet, enable biometric lock / PIN (optional) for convenience and extra device-level security.
Safety tip: Do not download Exodus from third-party sites or follow links from unknown sources—phishing copies exist.
3. Core features you will use
3.1 Sending & receiving
Send/receive addresses, QR codes, and transaction history are available on both desktop and mobile. Always double-check address paste/QR data before sending.
3.2 Swap & exchange
Built-in swap lets you trade one asset for another within the wallet UI — convenient, but check fees and rates before swapping.
3.3 Staking & rewards
For supported coins, Exodus provides in-wallet staking to earn rewards while maintaining control of your keys.
3.4 Hardware wallet integration
Exodus supports Ledger (and other hardware in some flows) for higher security by keeping private keys on a hardware device. Use hardware when holding larger balances. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
4. Security guide — practical steps
4.1 Understand custody
Exodus is non-custodial: you control the seed phrase that restores funds. Exodus provides the software; the recovery phrase gives full access to the wallet, so treat it like cash. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
4.2 Backup & recovery
- Write the 12-word secret key on paper (or engraved metal) and store it in a safe, offline place. Do not store it in cloud notes, email, photo backups, or screenshots. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Consider a split backup (two geographically separate, secure locations) or a safety deposit box for larger holdings.
4.3 Device hygiene
- Keep your OS and Exodus app updated — updates patch security issues.
- Use antivirus on desktop and enable OS-level disk encryption.
- Enable biometric/pin lock on mobile; use a strong local password on desktop.
4.4 Beware of phishing & supply risks
Only download official binaries and verify URLs. Exodus maintains a support knowledge base and published security practices; check official channels for announcements. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
4.4.1 Open-source note
Exodus publishes some open-source components, but not all UI/desktop code is fully open — a design choice they document in support articles. This affects how external auditors can review the entire product. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
5. Troubleshooting & support
5.1 Common issues
- Missing funds after restore — ensure correct chain and full sync; check transaction history on a block explorer.
- App won't start — reinstall from official download and restore using your secret key only if necessary.
5.2 Where to get help
Use the Exodus Knowledge Base and official support channels before sharing sensitive data. Never share your seed phrase with support or anyone else.