Overview
Hardware wallets keep private keys offline, offering a strong protection layer against malware and phishing. This tutorial walks you through unboxing, connecting to a trusted application, creating a PIN, writing the recovery phrase, and verifying the device before moving funds.
Step-by-step setup
Check packaging seals and device integrity. If anything looks tampered with, stop and contact official support channels.
Download the vendor’s official desktop app or mobile companion from the provider's site and verify checksums if offered.
Follow the on-screen prompts to create a PIN and generate a recovery phrase. Write the phrase on paper or a metal plate — never take photos or store it digitally.
Confirm addresses on-device when receiving funds and perform a small test transaction to validate setup.
Best practices
- Keep at least two physical backups of your recovery phrase in separate secure locations.
- Store seed backups offline in fireproof/waterproof storage when possible.
- Enable optional passphrases only if you understand the consequences (losing the passphrase = losing access).
Troubleshooting quick fixes
- If the device is not detected, ensure the companion app is running and reinstall the Bridge/driver if required.
- For firmware update failures, restart the app and device, and avoid interrupting the update process.
FAQ
Can I store my seed phrase digitally?
No. Storing seeds digitally (photos, cloud storage) risks theft from malware and cloud breaches. Use offline physical storage.
Should I buy a replacement device if damaged?
Yes — if tampering is suspected, stop and obtain an official replacement. Never use a compromised device.