When installing a new instance of the Fortytwo node, you may want to migrate your existing wallet to retain access to your previous identity and rewards. This guide explains how to safely transfer your wallet credentials (.account_private_key file) from an old node installation to a new one.

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Steps to Migrate Your Wallet

1

Locate your old node installation folder.
2

Inside it, open the FortytwoNode subfolder.
3

Copy the file named: .account_private_key
4

Go to your new node installation folder.
5

Create a subfolder named FortytwoNode if it doesn’t already exist.
6

Paste the copied .account_private_key file into the new FortytwoNode folder.
Your new node will now use the same wallet as before. No reactivation or new wallet generation is required.

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Platform-Specific Notes

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macOS

Hidden files like .account_private_key are not shown by default in Finder. To reveal them:
  • Open the folder in Finder.
  • Press Command + Shift + . to toggle hidden file visibility.
  • Once you’re done copying, press the same keys again to hide hidden files.

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Windows

To view hidden files in File Explorer:
1

Open File Explorer.
2

Select the View tab from the top menu.
3

Click Show → Hidden items.
4

Hidden files and folders (including .account_private_key) will now be visible.

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Important

  • Do not share or expose your .account_private_key file. It grants full access to your wallet.
  • Ensure that the copied file is placed exactly in the FortytwoNode subfolder of your new node installation directory.
  • If you are operating nodes on multiple devices, each must use a separate wallet with its own unique seed phrase and .account_private_key file.