Get started — Secure hardware wallet

Quick overview

This guide walks you through the safe setup and first use of your hardware wallet: unboxing, verifying device authenticity, initializing the device, writing down and safeguarding your recovery seed, creating a passphrase (optional), and performing your first transaction.

1. 1. Unbox & verify
   Confirm the packaging is sealed and tamper-free. Only purchase hardware wallets from official channels or trusted resellers. Inspect the device physically — it should match official product photos and include documentation. If a tamper-evident seal is broken, stop and contact the vendor.
   If you suspect tampering, do not connect the device to your computer. Contact official support and return the device for a replacement.
2. 2. Connect & update firmware
   Connect the device to a knowledge-client on a trustworthy computer. Always use official setup software provided by the hardware manufacturer. The first time you connect, the device may check its firmware version. If a firmware update is required, follow the official update process.
   Firmware is the device's operating system — updating it via the manufacturer's tools ensures you are running a trusted version.
3. 3. Initialize the device
   When initializing, choose whether to create a new wallet or recover an existing one. To create a new wallet, the device will generate a recovery seed — typically 12, 18 or 24 words. The seed generation happens on the device itself, not on your computer.
   Important: never enter your recovery seed into a computer, phone, or cloud service. The seed should only be written on the provided card or a secure medium and stored offline.
4. 4. Write down the recovery seed carefully
   You will be shown each word sequentially. Write each word, in order, on the recovery card (or a metal backup) — use printed block letters if helpful. Verify each word with the device when prompted. Store the written seed in a safe place (or multiple geographically separated locations).
   • Do not photograph or copy the seed to a digital file.
   • Do not share it with anyone — anyone with the seed can access your funds.
   • Consider a fireproof/waterproof metal backup for long-term protection.
5. 5. Choose an additional passphrase (optional)
   Many hardware wallets allow an optional passphrase — an extra word or phrase added to your seed. This creates a hidden wallet and increases privacy. Treat the passphrase as an additional secret: losing it may make part of your funds irretrievable, while revealing it compromises the hidden wallet.
6. 6. Install companion software and create accounts
   Install the official desktop or web companion application. Use it to create accounts for each cryptocurrency you will hold. Only use official clients or well-reviewed third-party wallet software known to support hardware wallets securely.
7. 7. Perform a small test transaction
   Before sending large amounts, perform a small incoming and outgoing transaction. Send a tiny amount to the hardware wallet's receive address and then send it out again. Confirm all addresses on the device screen before approving any transaction.
   Confirm that addresses shown in the desktop app match the device screen. A mismatch may indicate malware on the host computer.
8. 8. Regular security hygiene
   Keep firmware updated, avoid connecting your device to unknown or untrusted computers, and never share your recovery seed or passphrase. Use strong, unique passwords for related accounts and enable two-factor authentication where appropriate.

Best practices — deeper guidance

Security is a layered process. Below are concrete recommendations that help protect your assets:

• Buy trusted hardware: Use official resellers and verify device authenticity on setup.
• Air-gapped backups: Consider storing secondary backups in a physically secure, offline location such as a safe deposit box.
• Shamir or multisig: For high-value storage, consider advanced options like Shamir backup splits or multisignature wallets to reduce single-point risk.
• Emergency planning: Document clear inheritance instructions for trusted parties and consider legal mechanisms for access in case of incapacity.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and what to check before contacting support:

• Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable or port. Avoid USB hubs. Restart your computer after an initial connection attempt.
• Firmware update failed: Reconnect the device and follow the official update guide. Do not attempt to use unfamiliar tools to change the firmware.
• I lost my seed: If you lose the seed and still have the device initialized and accessible, create a new wallet, generate a new seed, and transfer funds. If you lose both the device and the seed, recovery may be impossible.

Glossary

Recovery seed

The human-readable list of words (usually 12/18/24) generated by your device that allows wallet recovery.

Passphrase

An optional additional secret that creates a different wallet from the same seed — think of it as a second password for your backup.

Firmware

Software that runs directly on your hardware wallet. Keep it up to date from official sources.

Multisig

Short for "multiple signatures" — a configuration that requires more than one key to authorize a transaction.

Legal & Safety reminder

Cryptocurrency custody means you are responsible for the security of your private keys. The manufacturer or vendor cannot restore access to funds if the seed is lost or stolen. Consider seeking professional legal or financial advice for estate planning and large holdings.