By default, you need to backup Bitcoin Core after every 100 transactions. This includes both transactions you send as well as payments you request (whether or not you actually received the payment).

For example, you need to backup after sending 33 payments and requesting 67 payments (even though you only received 60 payments).

Bitcoin Core can be configured to allow you to go more transactions between backups. See the setting.

Anyone who gets access to your wallet can steal your bitcoins. The first line of defense against this is encrypting your wallet, an option from the File menu in the graphical interface.

However, encrypting may not be enough if your computer becomes infected by malware. Learn about for security against this type of attack.

In addition to securing your wallet, you also need to keep your backups secure. Anyone who gets access to them can also steal your bitcoins.

Learn more:secure your wallet

Computers that connect to the Internet are frequently hacked or infected with bitcoin-stealing malware. Computers that never connect to the Internet are a much more secure location for your bitcoins.

Bitcoin Core can be run on an always-offline computer, creating an offline wallet (also called a cold wallet). The offline wallet will securely store the private keys, while a separate online Bitcoin Core wallet will send and receive transactions.

Learn more:Creating and signing offline transactions

Your Bitcoin wallet isn’t like a bank account—it won’t automatically go to your heirs if you die or become disabled.

You have to plan ahead and make sure there is a way for your heirs to access your wallet backups when you’re no longer available.

Learn more:Estate planning: how can I ensure my bitcoins are inheritable?