Passary Keyfiles Explained
By Mihaly Kertesz · Updated
A Passary keyfile supplies an additional required input when a vault is configured to use one. It separates knowledge of the master password from possession of the file, while adding a recovery dependency. An intact vault backup may remain inaccessible without the exact required keyfile.
Passary keyfiles and vault encryption
The keyfile contributes bytes to the cryptographic unlock material. Recreating its filename or substituting a similar document does not reproduce that input.
A local keyfile is different from an online second-factor challenge. Possession of both the password and required file may allow attempts to open a copied vault offline. The file does not prevent malware from observing an unlocked session.
Passary security model and limitations · Encryption boundaries and recovery
Passary keyfile setup in a practice vault
A disposable vault with invented entries demonstrates the creation controls in a particular client. Where keyfile protection is offered, the selected or generated file becomes part of the required credential set. Reopening establishes whether the chosen password and file work together.
Interface labels can differ between the web app and Windows preview. Across both, the recovery requirement is an encrypted backup with every matching unlock component.
- Disposable vault and invented entries
- Keyfile selection in the supported creation flow
- Protected second copy of the exact file
- Successful lock and reopen with both factors
- Independent encrypted backup restore
Passary keyfile storage and backup
A freely accessible folder containing both the vault and keyfile provides little separation if that folder is stolen. A sole keyfile on one USB drive instead creates a fragile recovery dependency. Protected redundant storage balances those risks.
Keyfile identity depends on its bytes. Editing or replacing the contents can change the input; a label for the storage location can distinguish copies without modifying the file.
Passary keyfiles after credential changes
A known-good encrypted backup and its matching credentials preserve the earlier state during a protection change. Supported vault controls update the live vault; directly editing its file is a different operation.
Older backups may still require the previous keyfile. Generation records associate copies with their unlock components, while a reopen and backup restore establish the new protection’s behavior.
Missing Passary keyfiles and recovery
Protected backups and previous devices may hold the exact required file. A still-unlocked trusted session may also permit a supported encrypted export or credential change. Resetting storage or reinstalling that client can remove the remaining access path.
The encrypted database cannot replace a missing required keyfile, and Passary support cannot promise a bypass. The recovery policy describes usable copies and credentials.
Passary recovery policy · How KeePass keyfile formats differ