Encryption Keys and Security in Afina#

What the key file is and why it is needed

The key file is an access element for encrypted data in Afina.
It is protected by the master password and is required to access data after migration, recovery, or re-login.

The key file and master password must be created and saved during the first login or migration from older versions to Afina.

The key file is as critical as a seed phrase: if you lose access to both the key file and the master password, access to your accounts or encrypted-data recovery will be impossible.

1. Create a new key file

Enter the old master password and click Create a new key file.

First Afina launch and key file creation

2. A new encrypted key file has been created. Save it in a secure place before continuing. This window cannot be closed until the key file is saved to your device.

Warning about the importance of saving the key file

3. Save the key file on your device

What the master password protects and what the key file encrypts

«Key file» encrypts your data such as accounts and cookies, and all sensitive data in Afina.
«Master password» protects the key file and confirms permission for key-related actions.

Secure key file storage#

For reliable data protection, you should additionally store a copy of the key file on an external device or in secure storage.

Your key file is always encrypted with the master password. Access is possible only if the master password is known.

The master password must be memorized or stored safely in a separate place from the key file. This is critical for future access to encrypted data.

1. Key file and master-password controls are available in Afina Core Settings Afina Main Settings section in the interface

2. Then open the Cloud section Cloud section for key file management

Change Master Password#

After enabling this toggle, the following fields are shown:

«Current Master Password»
«New Master Password»

After filling both fields, you must click Save changes.

Master password change form in security settings

Save Key File#

After enabling this toggle, the «Master Password» field appears for access confirmation.

After entering the master password, the following actions are available:

Save Key File — specify a path, and Afina will save the key file locally on the device;
Show Key File QR Code — opens a QR code for transfer or saving the key file in another way.

Actions to save the key file and open the QR code

Transfer the key to another device#

When transferring to a new device, simply enter the master password and upload your key file.

Selecting a method to transfer the key file to a new device Confirming access with the master password when importing the key file

Storage and migration rules#

store the key file separately from cloud storage;
keep both the key file and master password in a secure place;
do not share the key file with other users;
do not keep the key file in open/public access.

If you want to move access to another PC and keep working with the same project folder, use the saved key file and the current master password on the new PC during the first launch of Afina.