LND Static Channel Backup -- Recover Funds After Data Loss

What is a Static Channel Backup (SCB)?

An SCB file (channel.backup) contains enough information to close all your channels and recover funds if you lose your LND database. It does NOT restore your node — it just lets you get funds back.

Where is the Backup File?

~/.lnd/data/chain/bitcoin/mainnet/channel.backup

Export a Fresh Backup

lncli exportchanbackup --all
# or save to file:
lncli exportchanbackup --all --output_file /backup/channel.backup

Automate Backups (Recommended)

# Watch for changes and copy:
while true; do
  inotifywait -e close_write ~/.lnd/data/chain/bitcoin/mainnet/channel.backup
  cp ~/.lnd/data/chain/bitcoin/mainnet/channel.backup /backup/channel.backup
done

Restore from Backup

# New node, same seed:
lnd --restorefile=/path/to/channel.backup

# Or via CLI:
lncli restorechanbackup --multi_backup $(xxd -p channel.backup | tr -d 
)

What Happens During Restore?

LND broadcasts a force-close transaction for each channel. Your funds are returned to your on-chain wallet after the CLTV timelock expires (typically 144-2016 blocks).

Important Warnings

- Keep backup updated: stale backups may miss newer channels

- Never restore on same node while original is running — causes double-spend attempts

- Back up to multiple locations: cloud + USB + remote server