A complete setup guide designed to help you set up your new hardware cryptocurrency wallet safely, easily, and with full confidence.
Whether you're using a hardware wallet for the first time or upgrading from a software wallet, this page will walk you through everything you need to know—from unboxing to creating your recovery seed, installing wallet software, securing your device, and making your first transaction.
A hardware wallet is one of the most secure ways to protect your digital assets because your private keys stay offline, stored in a device built specifically to keep attackers out. This guide focuses on universal best practices that apply to modern hardware wallet devices and their companion applications.
Make sure you have everything ready
Before starting the setup process, make sure you have:
Always purchase from an official store or authorized reseller. Avoid second-hand devices.
Ensure you're using a trusted, malware-free device.
Avoid public Wi-Fi.
Never store your seed digitally.
Inspect for authenticity and tampering
⚠️ Security Check: Inspect packaging for any signs of tampering. If anything appears suspicious, do not continue—contact support immediately.
When unboxing your hardware wallet, inspect for any signs of tampering. Packaging should be intact with no tears, loose glue, or attempts to reseal it. Many brands use holographic stickers or shrinkwrap for authenticity.
Establish secure connection and update firmware
Once your device is verified as authentic, connect it to your computer using the included cable. You will be instructed to visit the manufacturer's official companion app or dashboard.
💡 Pro Tip: Always type the URL manually or use a trusted bookmark—never follow search engine ads, which can be spoofed.
The device may perform a firmware update. Allow it to complete and do not disconnect the wallet during this process.
Generate your private keys and recovery seed
After firmware updates are complete, you can create a new wallet. This generates your unique private keys and the recovery seed that serves as the master backup to your funds.
The recovery seed is a sequence of 12, 18, or 24 words. It restores your entire wallet if your device is lost, damaged, or replaced.
Your device will show each word one by one. Write them down carefully in the exact order. Many wallets will ask you to confirm several of the words before continuing.
Manage your digital assets securely
The hardware wallet works together with its companion app, which lets you manage your digital assets securely. The application never stores your private keys—it communicates with your wallet, which signs all transactions internally.
Set up cryptocurrency accounts and addresses
💡 Pro Tip: Many wallets generate a new address each time for privacy, but all addresses remain tied to your account.
Verify and approve transactions on your device
Sending funds from a hardware wallet requires verifying the transaction on the physical device.
Best practices for ongoing security
Good security practices ensure your wallet stays protected:
Use a PIN that's not easily guessed and different from other accounts
Keep firmware and companion app up to date
Never respond to unsolicited messages asking for personal info
Consider adding an optional passphrase for extra security
How to recover your wallet
✅ Good News: Your crypto remains safe as long as your recovery seed is secure.
To restore access, get a new hardware wallet and select "Recover Wallet." Enter your recovery seed directly on the device—never on a website or keyboard.
Your hardware wallet is now set up and secure
With your wallet initialized, recovery seed secured, and companion app installed, you now have a robust setup for managing your digital assets. Explore the features, organize your accounts, and practice small test transactions until you're fully comfortable.
Your hardware wallet now serves as your personal digital vault—keep it safe, stay vigilant, and enjoy full control over your crypto.