Why a hardware wallet?
Hardware wallets keep your private keys offline and under your control. Compared with software-only storage, hardware devices make it far harder for remote attackers to access funds. Think of yours as a small, dedicated vault: it signs transactions only when you physically confirm them.
Before you begin
Find a quiet space. Have a pen and paper for your recovery phrase (do not photograph it). Keep your device and recovery seed away from public Wi-Fi and unknown USB cables. If possible, unbox your device yourself and inspect for tampering.
Step-by-step setup
Power on & initialize
Follow the on-device instructions to set up a new wallet. Choose a strong PIN that you can remember but isn't guessable. The PIN locks the device; multiple incorrect attempts will usually trigger a wipe for safety.
Write your recovery phrase
When the device displays a recovery phrase, write it down in the exact order on the provided card or a trusted notebook. This phrase is the only backup. Store copies separately in secure locations (e.g., a safe). Never share it.
Verify the seed
The device will ask you to confirm words from the recovery phrase. This ensures your backup is correct. If you make a mistake, start over and securely re-record the seed.
Install companion app
Use the official desktop or mobile companion to manage accounts and install apps for specific blockchains. Always download from the official source and verify integrity where possible.
Practice safety
Try a small transaction first to confirm everything works. Keep firmware updated, and never enter your recovery phrase into a computer or phone. If a site asks for your seed, it's a scam—refuse and disconnect.
Best practices & tips
Use a PIN and optionally a passphrase for an extra layer of protection. Distribute your recovery copies across trusted, geographically separate locations. Periodically review your backups and device firmware. Consider multi-signature setups for larger holdings.
Security checklist
- Unbox device yourself; check tamper-evidence.
- Record recovery phrase offline only.
- Never enter seed into a computer or photograph it.
- Verify companion app sources and firmware.
- Use a small test transaction before larger transfers.