> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.parallaxprotocol.org/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Understanding Accounts & Addresses

> Beginner-friendly guide to Parallax accounts, addresses, and keys.

To use the Parallax network, you need an **account**. Accounts are how you **hold Parallax coins**, **send and receive transactions**, and **interact with the blockchain**.

This guide explains what accounts are, how they work, and how to create one safely.

***

## What is an Account?

A Parallax account has two important parts:

* **Public Address** → This is your “bank account number.”
  * Example: `0x1234...abcd`
  * Safe to share with others so they can send you Laxes.

* **Private Key** → This is your secret password.
  * Example: `0xabcdef1234567890...`
  * Must **never** be shared with anyone. Whoever has it controls your funds.

Together, the address and private key let you prove ownership of your coins.

***

## How to Create an Account

There are several ways to create a Parallax account:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Using MetaMask (recommended)">
    The easiest way is through [MetaMask](./metamask).

    * When you install MetaMask, it generates a **wallet** with one or more addresses.
    * MetaMask secures your keys behind a **seed phrase** (12 words).
    * Write down your seed phrase and keep it offline in a safe place.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Using the Parallax client">
    You can also create an account directly with the Parallax client:

    ```bash theme={null}
    ./prlx account new
    ```

    You’ll be asked to set a password.\
    The account file (keystore) will be saved in your data directory:

    * Windows: `%LOCALAPPDATA%\Parallax\keystore`
    * macOS: `~/Library/Parallax/keystore`
    * Linux: `~/.parallax/keystore`

    ⚠️ **Important:** Always back up your keystore file and password securely.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Using parallaxkey (advanced)">
    Advanced users can use the `parallaxkey` utility included in the release package to generate keys manually. This is usually not necessary for beginners.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Sending & Receiving Laxes

* To **receive LAX**, share your **public address** with the sender.
* To **send LAX**, use MetaMask or the client to sign a transaction with your **private key**.

All transactions are recorded permanently on the blockchain and can be viewed in the [Parallax Explorer](https://explorer.parallaxprotocol.org).

***

## Security Best Practices

* **Never share your private key or seed phrase** with anyone.
* **Back up your keys** in multiple safe places (preferably offline).
* Use a **strong password** when creating accounts with the client.
* Consider a **hardware wallet** in the future for added security (support coming soon).

***

✨ You now know the basics of accounts and addresses in Parallax! Next, try [Sending and Receiving LAX](./send-and-reveive) to make your first transaction.