SLIP-39 (Shamir Backup)
Definition
SLIP-39 is a standard for creating Shamir secret sharing backups using mnemonic word phrases. It splits wallet seeds into multiple share phrases, requiring a threshold to recover. More robust than single BIP-39 backup—quantum-resistant backup distribution.
Technical Explanation
SLIP-39 features: word-based shares (easier to write), checksums (error detection), multiple groups (organizational hierarchy), and standardized derivation. Shares are 20 or 33 words depending on entropy. Compatible with Trezor and other implementations.
Security: Shamir's underlying scheme is information-theoretically secure—unbreakable even by quantum computers. SLIP-39 adds usability without compromising security. Threshold recovery requires physical share collection.
SynX Relevance
Use SLIP-39 compatible tools to create distributed backups of your SynX wallet. Split into shares stored in different locations or with different trustees. Your quantum-resistant keys remain recoverable even if some shares are lost.
Frequently Asked Questions
- SLIP-39 vs BIP-39?
- BIP-39: single phrase, single point of failure. SLIP-39: multiple shares, threshold recovery.
- Can I convert BIP-39 to SLIP-39?
- Not directly—different derivation. Generate new SLIP-39 wallet and transfer funds, or split the BIP-39 entropy.
- What if I lose some shares?
- If you have threshold shares, recovery works. Fewer than threshold—unrecoverable. Plan redundancy.
Distributed mnemonic backup. SLIP-39 backup for SynX