Bitcoin Core · Start here
Your first exercise uses no real bitcoin.
The first goal is to understand the shape of the process: verify the software, create an empty practice wallet, identify what must be backed up, and explain the plan in your own words.
Keep this exercise disposable.
Do not send funds to the wallet. Do not remove or overwrite an existing wallet, data directory, or backup. If Bitcoin Core is already in use on this computer, stop and make a separate practice plan before changing anything.
Exercise 01
Build the map before you test recovery.
01
Prepare a practice environment
Use no real bitcoin. Choose a computer and location where you can work slowly, keep notes, and repeat the exercise.
02
Download and verify Bitcoin Core
Follow the official download and verification instructions for your operating system. Record what you checked and why.
03
Create one empty practice wallet
Give it an obvious test name. Do not generate or send real funds. The goal is to learn the model, not to move money.
04
Back it up and explain it
Write down where the backup lives, what the password protects, and what another trusted person would need to know.
Finish line
Stop when you can explain the plan.
- I know which software I downloaded and what I verified.
- I know that this wallet contains no real funds.
- I can identify the wallet backup and its role.
- I have written down the questions I still cannot answer.