Eth 2.0 Key Generation: Ubuntu Live USB
Last updated
Was this helpful?
Last updated
Was this helpful?
This guide demonstrates how to safely generate Eth 2.0 validator keys using Ubuntu live boot from USB.
You will need 2 USB sticks and a PC running either Linux, Windows, or macOS.
eth2.0-deposit-cli
Key GeneratorPlease be sure you are using the official Ethereum Foundation GitHub account.
eth2deposit-cli
tarball to the USB:The USB will be completely wiped, be sure to back up any important data!
Physically unplug all modems, routers, and Ethernet cables. Make sure you never turn on WIFI or any networking capabilities. It should be impossible to connect to the internet.
Begin with the computer powered down
Plug the Ubuntu live USB into the computer
Start the computer and continually press F-12
to enter one-time boot menu
Choose the Ubuntu live USB from the boot menu
If successful, the Ubuntu live USB will pull up the GRUB menu. It may automatically continue, otherwise select the first option by hitting ENTER
Try Ubuntu
:eth2deposit-cli
tarball:Extract
in the upper left corner:Home
towards the upper left, then click the green Extract
Home
Folder:eth2.0-deposit-cli
Ctrl + Alt + T
./deposit new-mnemonic
:The 24 word mnemonic seed is necessary to withdraw your staked Eth. Without the seed, you will be unable to transfer/withdraw and your Eth will be lost forever.
deposit_data
and keystore
filesFiles can be found at:/home/YOURUSERNAME/eth2.0-deposit-cli/validator_keys
deposit_data-[timestamp].json
contains data used to register your validator on the Eth2 launchpad
keystore -[timestamp].json
validator keystore file protected by password (aka validator signing key)
/home/eth2.0-deposit-cli/validator_keys
:Deposit_data
file contents:Keystore
file contents:deposit_data
and keystore
files to external USB:Congratulations, you successfully created your Eth 2.0 validator keys!
Close Ubuntu, store the seed, and transfer deposit_data
and keystore
to your main PC.
If you're running Windows or Mac, you can follow the guides found here: ||
A bank security box is helpful in preventing the