---
type: source
title: "Matrix Security Keys: Recovery Key Setup"
tags: [matrix, security, encryption, recovery]
related: [matrix, matrix-recovery-key]
created: 2026-06-30
updated: 2026-06-30
sources: ["output/rz_uni_greifswald_de_dienste_allgemein_instant_messaging_chat_matrix_sicherheits.md"]
---

# Matrix Security Keys: Recovery Key Setup

This source provides a step-by-step technical guide for creating a recovery key within the Matrix client provided by the Universitätsrechenzentrum (URZ) at Universität Greifswald.

## Key Technical Details
- **Purpose**: The recovery key is essential for decrypting message history. By default, message keys are stored encrypted on the server; without a recovery key, users risk permanent loss of all previous encrypted messages if their session is lost.
- **Setup Process**:
    1. Access **Profile Icon** $\rightarrow$ **All Settings**.
    2. Navigate to **Encryption** $\rightarrow$ **Set up recovery**.
    3. Copy the generated recovery key to a secure location.
    4. Confirm the key by pasting it back into the client to complete the setup.
- **Recommended Storage**: The URZ recommends using a secure password manager, specifically mentioning **KeePassXC**, to store the recovery key.

## Critical Warning
The recovery key is the sole mechanism for restoring access to encrypted communications across different sessions or after data loss. Failure to set this up can lead to a complete loss of message history.