What is Exodus?
Exodus is a self-custody, multi-currency software wallet designed for UI/UX perfection. It allows you to manage 250+ assets (BTC, ETH, SOL, ADA) in a single interface. As a "Hot Wallet," it is connected to the internet, prioritizing speed and convenience over cold storage isolation.
Self-Custody means: "Not your keys, not your coins." Exodus encrypts your private keys locally on your device. Exodus (the company) has no access to your funds and cannot freeze your account.
Privacy & Monero Warning
Exodus is not fully open-source. While excellent for portfolio tracking, it is not recommended for high-threat anonymity models. Furthermore, Exodus has ended support for Monero (XMR) in many jurisdictions. For darknet operations, use Feather or Cake Wallet.
1 Installation Guide
Desktop
Windows (64-bit), macOS, Linux.
Best for: Portfolio management, Trezor integration, and large screen charts.
Mobile
iOS & Android.
Best for: Daily spending, FaceID security, and buying crypto via MoonPay.
Web3 Extension
Chrome & Brave.
Best for: Connecting to dApps (Uniswap/Jupiter) and managing NFTs.
Always download from the official site: exodus.com
2 Security & Backup (Crucial)
Exodus initializes your wallet immediately, but it is not safe until you manually back it up.
1. The 12-Word Secret Phrase (Master Key)
Navigate to Settings > Backup. Exodus will reveal 12 words.
Action: Write these down on paper. Verify them in the app.
Warning: Never store this digitally (email, screenshot, cloud). Anyone with these words owns your money.
2. Local Password
Create a strong password. This encrypts your private keys on your specific device. If you forget this password, you can only reset it using the 12-word phrase.
3. Mobile Biometrics
On iOS/Android, enable FaceID or Fingerprint for convenient access, but remember: Biometrics only unlock the app; they cannot restore the wallet on a new phone.
3 Sending & Receiving
Receiving Crypto
- Click the asset (e.g., Bitcoin). Click "Receive".
- Address Formats: Bitcoin supports Native Segwit (`bc1...`), Nested Segwit (`3...`), and Legacy (`1...`). `bc1` is cheaper and recommended.
- Destination Tags: For Ripple (XRP), EOS, or Stellar (XLM), you usually need a Memo ID if receiving on an exchange, but usually not when receiving to your own Exodus wallet.
Sending Crypto
- Paste the destination address carefully.
- Network Fees: Exodus automatically calculates the fee to ensure confirmation.
- Custom Fees: In the "Advanced" menu (Desktop), you can set a lower fee if you don't mind waiting longer.
4 Exchange & Staking
Built-in Exchange (Swap)
Exodus integrates third-party API providers (like Changelly/ChangeHero) to allow in-app swapping (e.g., BTC -> ETH).
Staking Rewards (Passive Income)
Navigate to the Rewards app inside Exodus. You can stake Proof-of-Stake assets directly.
5 Hardware Wallet Integration
Exodus acts as a "Bridge" interface for hardware wallets. This gives you the beautiful Exodus UI while your keys stay offline (Cold Storage).
Trezor (Desktop)
1. Plug in Trezor Model T or One.
2. Unlock Trezor.
3. Confirm pairing in Exodus.
4. You will see a separate "Trezor Portfolio" inside Exodus.
Ledger (Mobile)
1. Enable Bluetooth on Ledger Nano X.
2. Open Exodus Mobile > Profile > Security.
3. Connect Ledger.
4. Manage assets securely on the go.
6 Web3, dApps & NFTs
The Exodus Web3 Extension (Chrome/Brave) allows you to interact with decentralized applications on Ethereum, Solana, and Cardano.
- NFT Gallery: View your Solana/Ethereum NFTs directly in the wallet.
- dApp Connection: Connect to Uniswap, OpenSea, MagicEden, or Jupiter Aggregator.
- Networks: Supports switching between ETH Mainnet, Polygon, BSC, Avalanche, and Fantom.
7 Troubleshooting & Recovery
Wallet Not Syncing / Zero Balance
If your funds are missing but the transaction is confirmed on the blockchain: 1. Refresh the blockchain (Click the logo of the asset). 2. Update Exodus to the latest version. 3. Check your internet connection (VPNs sometimes block wallet ports).
Lost Password
There is no "Forgot Password" button via email.
Solution: Delete the app. Reinstall it. Select "Restore from Backup." Enter your 12-word phrase. Create a new password.
"Invalid Recovery Phrase"
This is the most common error.
1. Words must be all lowercase.
2. Check spelling against the official BIP39 Wordlist.
3. Ensure the order is 1-12 exactly.
Where to Spend Crypto
Use your Exodus wallet to fund transactions on these verified markets. (Note: We recommend converting to XMR via another wallet first for privacy).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Exodus require KYC (ID verification)?
No. Exodus is a self-custody wallet and does not require an account or ID. However, if you use the "Buy Crypto" feature (MoonPay/Ramp), those third-party providers WILL require KYC.
Can I restore my Exodus wallet on a different wallet app?
Yes. Exodus uses the BIP39 standard. You can take your 12-word seed phrase and import it into Trust Wallet, MetaMask (for ETH/BSC chains), or Ledger.
Why are Exodus fees higher than Binance?
Binance is a centralized exchange that matches orders internally. Exodus uses on-chain transactions and third-party swap providers, which incur network mining fees + a spread for the service.
