How to export a Private Key
If you managed to run a validator or full node (e.g. for becoming a root node), you might want to import your private key into a wallet application like MetaMask in order to actively participate in Q governance processes, change your stake or interact with other system contracts through the dApp "Your HQ".
The script located here helps you with the export. It is best used within node.js environment.
Prepare
Install npm package manager for node.js:
$ npm install
Scripts
Extract private key from keystore file:
$ node extract-geth-private-key ADDRESS [GETH_DATA_DIR [PASSWORD]]
| Parameter Name | Description |
|---|---|
| ADDRESS | The address you are interested in |
| GETH_DATA_DIR | the directory that holds the keystore sub directory. Defaults to ../validator |
| PASSWORD | The password that encrypts the key file. If omitted, the user will be prompted for the password |
EXAMPLES
$ node extract-geth-private-key 61f519ef91942b19061ba02864655326e9a260a2
$ node extract-geth-private-key 61f519ef91942b19061ba02864655326e9a260a2 /path/to/geth/dir myPassword
Run without node.js
If you don't have a node.js environment, you can run all scripts inside a docker container:
cd ..
./run-js-tools-in-docker.sh
Follow the on-screen instructions to obtain the file containing your private key.
Import into Wallet Applications
Depending on the used wallet application, importing the private key can be slightly different. For MetaMask, click on the account icon on the top right corner of MetaMask, then select "Import Account". Then select type "JSON" and upload the key file or select "Private Key" and copy&paste your exported private key.