> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.libertyswap.finance/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.libertyswap.finance/zkx-wallet/user-manual/unshielding-tokens.md).

# Unshielding Tokens

ZKX Wallet allows users to move shielded assets from Private Mode back into their public wallet balance through the Unshield process.

#### **How to Unshield Assets**

Follow these steps to unshield your assets:

1. Open ZKX Wallet in **Private Mode**.
2. On the main interface, click the **Unshield** button located on the right side.
3. Select your destination public wallet address.

⚠️ Double-check this address before continuing. Unshielding sends funds to whatever public address you enter here - it does not have to be the wallet you're currently using, and once confirmed, the transaction cannot be reversed. Sending to the wrong address means those funds are permanently lost.

Choosing a **fresh address you haven't used before** as the destination makes it harder for outside observers to connect the unshielded funds back to your previous wallet activity. Reusing a well-known or previously public address reduces this benefit. See Private Mode for more on why this matters.

4. Choose the asset and amount you want to unshield.
5. Review the fee for the transaction, shown before you confirm. Like shielding, unshielding carries a fee separate from network gas - see Railgun Private Sends: Privacy and Fee Structure for background.
6. Click **Next**.
7. Review the transaction details carefully, then click **Unshield** to confirm.

Once confirmed, the selected assets will begin transferring from your private balance back to your public wallet balance.

#### **Checking Your Public Balance**

After the unshield transaction is completed:

1. Switch back to **Public Mode**.
2. Check your wallet balance on the selected network.

Transaction processing times may vary depending on network conditions and private balance synchronization. If a balance you expect still hasn't appeared after a reasonable wait, verify the transaction on a block explorer before assuming something went wrong.

#### **Important Notes**

* Always verify the destination address before confirming an unshield transaction - this step cannot be undone.
* Unshielded assets will become publicly visible again on the blockchain.
* Sending to a new, previously unused address offers stronger privacy separation than unshielding back to an already-public address.
* Depending on network conditions, balance updates may take some time to appear.
* ZKX Wallet is also working on additional shield/unshield modes, including a faster option - available modes and their trade-offs may evolve, so check the in-app description of each mode at the time you unshield.