Cryptocurrency wallets like Ledger are popular because they give users full control over their digital assets. But with that control comes responsibility, especially when it comes to securing your recovery phrase.
If you lose your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP), you could permanently lose access to your crypto. To help solve this problem, Ledger has introduced a new product called the Ledger Recovery Key.
It is a secure, PIN-protected NFC card that stores your recovery phrase safely and makes it easier to back up and restore your wallet.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know as a beginner. You’ll learn how the Ledger Recovery Key works, how to back up your wallet step by step, and how to restore it if your device is lost or damaged. We’ll also explain the security features and give you tips on how to store it safely.
Read: Ledger Flex review
What Is the Ledger Recovery Key?
The Ledger Recovery Key is a physical smart card that stores your recovery phrase securely. It uses NFC (Near Field Communication) and a Secure Element chip, similar to the technology used in credit cards and passports.
You can back up your recovery phrase with a simple tap, and protect it with a 4 to 8-digit PIN. The card works offline, so it doesn’t connect to the internet or any cloud service. This means your recovery phrase stays private and safe.
Ledger Recovery Key is compatible with Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex devices. It was officially launched on July 24, 2025, and is priced at $39 USD. It’s also included for free when you buy a Ledger Stax or Ledger Flex. Hence, this new tool makes it easier and safer to protect your crypto without relying on paper backups.
How to Back Up Using Ledger Recovery Key?
Step 1: Check Device Compatibility
Ensure your Ledger Stax or Ledger Flex device is up to date before using Ledger Recovery Key. Minimum Ledger OS versions:
- 1.8.0 for Ledger Stax
- 1.4.0 for Ledger Flex
Also, Make sure NFC is enabled on your device.
Step 2: Power On Your Ledger Device
First, turn on your Ledger device. On the main screen, tap “Settings.” Then tap “Ledger Recovery Key.” Choose the option “Create Backup.” Your device will search for LRK.
Step 3: Start the Backup Process
Now, hold your Ledger Recovery Key card against the back of your device. The device will read the card using NFC and show its ID on the screen. Check that the ID matches the one printed on the card.
Step 4: Set a PIN for LRK
Next, you will be asked to create a PIN for the card. This PIN must be between 4 and 8 digits. You will need this PIN later to unlock the card. Be careful: if you enter the wrong PIN three times, the card will erase itself.
Step 5: Complete the Backup
After setting the PIN, tap the card again to confirm. Your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase will be encrypted and stored inside the card’s Secure Element chip.
Step 6: Store LRK Safely
Once the backup is complete, store the card in a safe place. Do not keep it with your Ledger device or your paper recovery sheet. It’s best to keep all three in separate locations.
How to Restore Using Ledger Recovery Key
If you lose your Ledger device or buy a new one, you can restore your wallet using the Recovery Key.
Step 1: Start Device Setup
Start by turning on your new Ledger Stax or Flex. On the welcome screen, choose “Restore from Backup.” Then select “Restore using Ledger Recovery Key.”
Step 2: Enter LRK PIN
You will be asked to enter the PIN you set earlier. This unlocks the encrypted recovery phrase stored on the card.
Step 3: Tap LRK to the Device
Hold the Recovery Key card against the back of the device. The device will read the card and decrypt the recovery phrase.
Step 4: Wallet Restored
Your wallet will be restored instantly. All your accounts, balances, and transaction history will appear just like before.
How to Update the Software on the Recovery Key Card
Ledger allows firmware updates to the Recovery Key card to improve security and add features.
- Step 1: Ensure your Ledger device is updated to the latest OS version.
- Step 2: Download the Recovery Key Updater app from Ledger Live.
- Step 3: Launch the app on your Ledger device.
- Step 4: Tap the Recovery Key card to initiate the update.
- Step 5: Enter the card’s PIN to authorize the update.
- Step 6: Wait for the update to complete securely via NFC.
🔐 The update process uses mutual authentication and encrypted communication between the card and your Ledger device.
LRK Security Architecture
The Ledger Recovery Key is designed to keep your crypto recovery phrase safe using strong hardware-based security. It stores your 24-word Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP) inside a special chip called a Secure Element, which is the same type of chip used in credit cards and biometric passports. This chip is Common Criteria EAL6+ certified, one of the highest security standards used by banks and governments.
The LRK uses NFC (Near Field Communication) to connect with your Ledger device. This connection is encrypted, so your recovery phrase is never exposed during the backup or restore process. The communication happens only between your Ledger device and the LRK card—no internet, no cloud, and no third-party servers are involved.
To protect access, you must set a PIN code (4 to 8 digits). If someone enters the wrong PIN three times, the card will automatically reset and erase the stored recovery phrase. This prevents unauthorized access even if the card is lost.
Ledger also made the LRK software open-source, so anyone can inspect how it works. It has been reviewed by Ledger’s internal security team and external experts like Synacktiv.
Comparison: Ledger Recovery Key vs. Ledger Recover
| Feature | Ledger Recovery Key | Ledger Recover |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Physical NFC smart card | Cloud-based subscription service |
| Launch Date | July 24, 2025 | 2023 |
| Storage Method | Offline Secure Element chip | Encrypted fragments stored by 3 independent providers |
| Encryption Standard | Common Criteria EAL6+ | End-to-end encryption with Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) |
| Access Protection | 4–8 digit PIN; 3 wrong attempts = data wipe | Identity verification required |
| Internet Dependency | None (fully offline) | Yes (requires internet and Ledger Live) |
| Device Compatibility | Ledger Stax, Ledger Flex | All Ledger devices |
| Backup Process | One-tap NFC backup | Identity-based cloud backup |
| Restore Process | Tap card + enter PIN | Identity verification + reassembly of fragments |
| Open Source Code | Yes (available on GitHub) | – |
| Subscription Required | No | Yes (monthly fee) |
| Cost | $39 USD (free with Stax/Flex) | Subscription pricing varies |
| Security Audits | Reviewed by Ledger Donjon & Synacktiv | Audited by Donjon and third-party labs |
| Risk if Lost | No access without PIN; data wiped after 3 failed attempts | Recovery possible via identity verification |
| User Control | Full control; no third-party access | Requires trust in identity providers |
| Use Case | Private, secure physical backup | Convenient remote recovery |
Benefits of Using Ledger Recovery Key
- Offline and Secure Backup: The Ledger Recovery Key stores your 24-word recovery phrase inside a Secure Element chip. This chip is certified to Common Criteria EAL6+, which is one of the highest security standards used in banking and government systems. Because it works offline and doesn’t connect to the internet or cloud, your recovery phrase stays private and protected from online threats.
- PIN Protection Against Unauthorized Access: You must set a 4 to 8-digit PIN to use the Ledger Recovery Key. If someone enters the wrong PIN three times, the card will automatically reset and erase the stored data. This means even if someone steals your card, they cannot access your recovery phrase without the correct PIN.
- Quick and Easy Backup and Restore: Backing up or restoring your wallet only takes a few seconds. You simply tap the card on the back of your Ledger Stax or Ledger Flex device and enter your PIN. This is much faster and easier than manually typing or writing down 24 words.
- Durable and Portable Design: The Ledger Recovery Key is about the size of a credit card (5 cm square), making it easy to store or carry. Unlike paper recovery sheets, it is resistant to water, fire, and wear. This makes it a more reliable long-term backup option.
- No Subscription or Identity Verification Needed: You don’t need to sign up for any service or share your personal information. The Ledger Recovery Key is a one-time purchase for $39 USD, and it works without internet or identity checks. This gives you full control over your backup without depending on third parties.
What Happens If You Lose It?
If you lose your Ledger Recovery Key, your crypto is still safe as long as you have your original 24-word recovery sheet. The card is protected by a PIN, and after three wrong attempts, it automatically wipes all stored data.
This means no one can access your recovery phrase without the correct PIN. You can restore your wallet using your recovery sheet on any Ledger device. The LRK is meant to be a backup, not a replacement.
Hence, if lost, you can simply create a new LRK from your Ledger Stax or Flex device using your recovery sheet.
Pricing and Availability
The Ledger Recovery Key was officially launched on July 24, 2025. It is priced at $39 USD when purchased separately.
A bundle of three cards is available for $99 USD, offering a 15% discount. Every new purchase of Ledger Stax or Ledger Flex includes one LRK for free.
Existing owners of these devices can also request a free LRK until August 30, 2025, with only shipping charges applied.
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