: Drag the new software to your Applications folder or replace the existing bitcoind / bitcoin-qt files in your binary directories.
How to perform a standard when upgrading Bitcoin Core versions.
This rebuilds the block index (takes 6+ hours).
For the most robust :
Quick backup checklist:
Once encrypted, any action involving private keys (like sending Bitcoin) requires unlocking. You must use the RPC command walletpassphrase followed by the timeout period in seconds, e.g., bitcoin-cli walletpassphrase "passphrase" 120 (unlocks for 2 minutes). The GUI will automatically prompt you for the passphrase when attempting to send.
Once your is complete, secure the new state. bitcoin core walletdat upd
This is the safest method for users uncomfortable with command lines.
Always ensure you are running the latest version of Bitcoin Core (currently v31.0 as of April 2026) to benefit from the latest security patches, privacy filters for wallet recovery, and the most robust database migration tools.
This update demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the Bitcoin Core development team to improving the security, performance, and usability of the wallet. As the Bitcoin network continues to evolve, these enhancements will help ensure that Bitcoin Core remains a reliable and trustworthy platform for users. : Drag the new software to your Applications
# Dump private keys from old wallet bitcoin-cli dumpwallet "wallet_dump.txt" # Create a new blank descriptor wallet bitcoin-cli createwallet "new_wallet" true true "" false true # Import the dump bitcoin-cli -rpcwallet="new_wallet" importwallet "wallet_dump.txt"
Users with very old, unnamed wallet.dat files (typically from before version 0.21) who attempt to use the built-in migration tool to convert to the modern "Descriptor" format while pruning is enabled.
In early 2026, a severe bug was discovered in Bitcoin Core versions 30.0 and 30.1. . For the most robust : Quick backup checklist: