Setting Up Persistent Storage in Tails

Last updated: May 2026

Persistence allows you to save encrypted data across reboots. This is essential if you need to keep PGP keys, Bitcoin wallets, or other credentials.

Enabling Persistence

1. Boot Tails and open the welcome screen.
2. Click "Configure persistent storage".
3. Choose a strong passphrase (at least 20 characters, mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).
4. Select which features to persist (e.g., Personal Files, PGP Keys, Network Connections).
5. Restart Tails and enter your passphrase when prompted.

Best Practices

• Use a very strong passphrase — This is your last line of defense if the USB is lost or seized.
• Back up your persistence — Create a backup of your persistent volume on a separate USB.
• Never share your passphrase — With anyone.