Welcome — this guide takes you from unboxing to confidently using your hardware wallet. It focuses on security-first steps that matter most: device integrity, a secure PIN, and the recovery phrase. Follow each step, and bookmark this page for quick reference.
Unbox & inspect
When you open your package, inspect the seal and packaging. Ensure there’s no evidence of tampering. Keep the original box until setup completes and you’ve made a successful test transaction. Unpack carefully: inside you should find the device, a USB cable (if included), and a recovery card or recovery sheet. If anything looks altered, stop and contact the seller or manufacturer support.
Power on & initialize
Power your device following the included quick-start. Choose “Set up as new device” when prompted. The device will ask you to choose a PIN — pick one long enough to avoid brute force and unique to this device (avoid 4-digit defaults or repeating sequences). Your device will briefly explain the recovery phrase process; read it carefully and don’t skip.
Write down your recovery phrase
Your device will display a series of 12, 18 or 24 words — the recovery phrase. This is the single most important backup for your crypto. Write them in order on the included recovery sheet and store it securely offline. Never store the phrase digitally (no photos, cloud notes, or email). Consider using two separate offline copies stored in different secure locations (safe deposit box, home safe).
Verify & test
After you record the phrase, the device will usually ask you to confirm a few words to verify you recorded them correctly. Complete the verification. Next, connect the device to your host computer or phone and open the official companion app (the official app lets you add accounts, install coin apps, and manage transactions). Do a small test receive and send to ensure the flow is working before moving larger amounts.
Install apps & add accounts
Within the companion app install only the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Each coin app is small and adds support for that blockchain. Add an account, receive into it, and check the address on both the device screen and the app for a match. Never accept addresses shown only inside a browser extension — always confirm on the device itself.
Daily use & safety rules
For routine use, connect the device to the official app and approve transactions directly on the device screen. Never enter your PIN into a website. If asked to reveal or type the recovery phrase into any website or app, it is a scam. Keep firmware updated, but only install updates that appear on the official site and are verified by the companion app.
Lost device or stolen device?
If your device is lost or stolen, your funds remain safe as long as your PIN and recovery phrase are secret. Order a replacement device and restore from your recovery phrase. When restoring on a new device, use the device's official restore process. If you suspect the recovery phrase has been exposed, move funds to a fresh wallet with a new recovery phrase immediately.
Advanced protections
For higher security, consider using a passphrase (an extra word appended to your recovery phrase) to create hidden wallets. This adds a second layer but also adds complexity: losing the passphrase means losing funds. Use multi-signature setups for large holdings or institutional needs. Always weigh complexity vs. your ability to reliably recover.
Quick checklist before you go
- Device firmware verified and up to date.
- PIN set and memorized (not written digitally).
- Recovery phrase written on physical media, securely stored.
- Test transaction confirmed on-chain.
- Companion app installed from official source (no third-party downloads).
Final words
Hardware wallets are the best balance of security and convenience for self-custody. They protect against common threats like malware and phishing when used correctly. The core of their security is simple: protect your device, your PIN, and your recovery phrase. Follow the steps above, stay skeptical of unsolicited links, and check addresses on your device every time you sign a transaction.