This article provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to generate your key, use it to unlock data on new computers, and retrieve it if you ever lose your original file.

Setting up your secret key

You can start the setup process in two ways: through a one-time prompt when you first sign in, or anytime from your settings. Whether you're a new user or adding this feature to an existing account, the steps are the same.

Step 1: Opting in

If you haven't enabled this feature yet, you'll see an invitation to "Set up passwords and payments sync" on your Manage Sync page or during your first sign-in after the feature launches. Click Set Up to begin.

Step 2: Generating your key

Shift Browser will create a unique cryptographic key just for you. You don't need to think of a password or choose any characters: Shift does the heavy lifting to ensure the key is as secure as possible. Click Generate to create your unique key.

Step 3: Saving your PDF

This is the most important step. You must save your secret key as a PDF to your computer to finish the setup. This PDF is your emergency kit if you ever need to sign in on a new device.

• Click Save as PDF
• Choose a secure location on your computer
• Once the save is confirmed, Shift will allow you to move to the final step

Note: You can't complete the setup without successfully saving this PDF. If you exit now, your passwords won't sync.

Step 4: Confirming sync is active

Once your key is saved, you'll see a success screen. Your passwords and credit cards are now encrypted and will begin syncing across your account.

Syncing a new device

When you sign into Shift Browser on a second computer, your bookmarks and settings will sync immediately. However, your passwords and payments will stay locked until you provide your key.

Entering your key

A prompt will appear asking for your Shift-generated secret key. Open the PDF you saved during setup, copy the key, and paste it into the field. Once confirmed, your sensitive data will unlock and sync to the new device.

If you dismissed the prompt

If you're in a hurry and skip the initial prompt, you can enter your key later:

1. Open Advanced Settings
2. Go to Account and Preferences
3. Click Manage Sync
4. Look for the Enter Secret Key button in the Passwords and Payments section

How to find or copy your secret key

If you've lost your original PDF but still have Shift Browser open and active on one of your computers, don't worry. You can retrieve your key directly from the app. Shift follows a model where any device that's already unlocked can reveal the key.

1. On a device where sync is already active, go to Advanced Settings
2. Select Account and Preferences and click Manage Sync
3. Scroll to the Secret Key section
4. Click the Reveal (eye) icon to see your key, or click Copy to save it to your clipboard

Related Articles

• How to manage your Sync settings in Shift Browser

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