> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://references.everstrike.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://references.everstrike.io/account/primary-wallet.md).

# Primary Wallet

Your primary wallet connects your Everstrike account to [DEX mode](/account/dex-mode-vs.-cex-mode.md).

After you confirm it, you can deposit, withdraw, stake, redeem, and mint. Transfers between Everstrike Smart Contracts and your primary wallet are near-instant.

### What is a wallet? <a href="#h_0ebb87f13f" id="h_0ebb87f13f"></a>

A wallet is a blockchain address controlled through credentials, such as a private key or recovery phrase. Use wallet software, such as [MetaMask](https://metamask.io/) and [Phantom](https://phantom.com/), to interact with it.

Only connect a wallet whose credentials you control.

### Why do I need to register my wallet as primary wallet on Everstrike? <a href="#h_3fe0d8d4c0" id="h_3fe0d8d4c0"></a>

Each Everstrike account supports one primary wallet. Select the wallet you want to use with your Everstrike account.

If you use [CEX mode](/account/dex-mode-vs.-cex-mode.md), Everstrike manages the wallet. You do not need to register a primary wallet.

### How can I set my primary wallet? <a href="#h_e55b586830" id="h_e55b586830"></a>

During DEX setup, Everstrike prepares an ownership message for your wallet. Review the wallet address and account ID, then sign the message in your wallet.

Everstrike publishes the signed message to the blockchain. This proves that you control the wallet and records it as your primary wallet.

The message uses this format:

```
I want to register my wallet with Everstrike and my unique account ID is <UNIQUE ACCOUNT ID>
```

For the complete setup flow, see [How to start trading on Everstrike](/trading/how-to-start-trading-on-everstrike.md).

### What if I want to change my primary wallet in the future? <a href="#h_913b244e9b" id="h_913b244e9b"></a>

You cannot change a confirmed primary wallet.

To use a different wallet address, create a new Everstrike account with a different email address.

### What if I lose access to my primary wallet? <a href="#h_817b2570a0" id="h_817b2570a0"></a>

Back up your wallet credentials securely before using DEX mode.

Everstrike Support cannot recover access to a wallet that you no longer control.

### Is it safe to sign a message with my wallet? <a href="#h_15f3e592c5" id="h_15f3e592c5"></a>

Yes, if you understand exactly what you sign.

Verify that the message contains your unique account ID and matches the format below.

```
I want to register my wallet with Everstrike and my unique account ID is <UNIQUE ACCOUNT ID>
```

This message proves that you control the wallet. It does not authorize asset transfers.

Never sign a message that you do not understand or that differs from this format.