Why Backups Matter
Your vault lives entirely on your computer. That's great for security—but it means you're responsible for backups. If your hard drive fails, your computer is stolen, or you accidentally delete the app, your backup is the only way to recover your passwords.
Local Password Vault makes backups easy with encrypted export files that you can store on USB drives, external hard drives, or any location you control.
Good news: Backup files are fully encrypted with AES-256. Even if someone finds your backup file, they can't open it without your master password.
Creating a Backup
1 Open the App
Launch Local Password Vault and unlock it with your master password.
2 Go to Settings
Click the gear icon in the top-right corner, or go to File → Settings.
3 Click "Create Backup"
Under the Backup and Restore section, click Create Backup.
4 Choose Save Location
Select where to save your backup file. We recommend a USB drive or external hard drive that you store separately from your computer.
5 Confirm
The app will create a file named something like LPV-Backup-2025-01-15.lpvault. You'll see a confirmation when it's complete.
File format: Backup files use the .lpvault extension. They're encrypted with the same AES-256 encryption as your vault and require your master password to restore.
Recommended Backup Schedule
How often should you backup? It depends on how frequently you add or change passwords:
Weekly
If you add new passwords regularly or change them often
Monthly
For most users who add passwords occasionally
After Major Changes
Always backup after adding many new entries
Where to Store Backups
Good Options
- USB flash drive – Keep it in a safe or lockbox
- External hard drive – Stored in a different location than your computer
- Second computer – Copy the file to another machine you own
- Safety deposit box – Maximum security for critical backups
The 3-2-1 Rule
For maximum protection, follow the 3-2-1 backup rule:
- 3 copies of your data
- 2 different storage types (e.g., USB + external drive)
- 1 copy stored offsite (different location)
Important: Don't store your only backup on the same computer as your vault. If your computer fails, you'll lose both.
Restoring from Backup
Current versions of Local Password Vault use encrypted .lpvbackup files and restore through Settings → Quick Actions → Restore Secure Backup, with the backup password you set when the backup was created (not necessarily the same as your master password).
Full walkthrough: Use the dedicated guide Restoring your vault from a secure backup — it matches the app today and will collect any extra restore materials (checklists, links) in one place.
Testing Your Backups
A backup is only useful if it works. Periodically test your backups:
- Copy your backup file to a temporary folder
- In the app, go to Settings → Backup and Restore → Verify Backup
- Select the backup file
- Enter your master password
- The app will confirm if the backup is valid and readable
Pro tip: Put a recurring reminder on your calendar to create and verify backups. Once a month is a good cadence for most users.