Overview
A hardware wallet stores private keys in a dedicated device and helps prevent key exposure to compromised computers or the internet. Proper setup and handling are essential to maintain security. This guide provides general best practices used by many hardware wallet vendors and is intended to be educational; always consult official documentation for product-specific instructions.
Before you begin — what to gather
Prepare a clean workspace and gather these items: the hardware device, the supplied USB cable, a computer you control, the recovery card or notebook, a reliable pen, and (optionally) a durable metal backup solution. Avoid public computers and unfamiliar networks during setup.
Download companion software and verify
Visit the official start page of the vendor to download the companion application. Prefer official links and, when available, verify the installer checksum or signature. Verifying a download reduces the risk of installing tampered software and is a recommended safety step.
Step-by-step setup (typical safe flow)
The steps below are typical for most modern hardware wallets; device prompts may vary. Use the device's official app for exact on-screen instructions.
- Inspect packaging and device. Check for tamper-evident seals and physical damage. If packaging appears altered, contact the vendor before continuing.
- Install official software. Run the verified installer and launch the companion app. If a local connector (bridge) is required, install it per vendor instructions.
- Connect the device. Attach the device via the supplied cable. The app should detect it and offer a guided setup flow.
- Create a secure PIN. Choose a PIN that is not easily guessable. The PIN protects the device if it is lost or stolen.
- Generate the recovery phrase on-device. Allow the device to create the recovery phrase and write the words exactly as shown onto the provided recovery card or a notebook. Do not store photos or digital copies.
- Confirm the phrase. You will usually be prompted to confirm a subset of the words—complete the check to ensure accuracy.
- Finalize and test. Finish the onboarding, create or import accounts, and receive a small test amount to verify incoming transactions and address correctness.
Recovery phrase: protection & storage
The recovery phrase (seed) is the master key to your funds. Protect it like a high-value physical item. Store it offline, avoid photographing it, and do not put it in cloud storage or on phones/computers. For long-term security, consider a metal backup that protects against fire, water, and physical decay.
Backup methods
- Write the phrase on the supplied recovery card and store it in a locked location.
- Use a certified metal backup plate for fire/water resilience.
- Consider split backup strategies (e.g., Shamir or manual splits) only after understanding their trade-offs.
Daily use & transaction hygiene
For routine operations, keep the device disconnected when not in use. When sending funds, connect the hardware, build the transaction in the companion app, and confirm on-device. For recurring recipients, maintain an address book in the companion app but still verify on-device for high-value transfers.
Troubleshooting — common issues and fixes
If the device does not connect: try a different USB cable or port, reboot your system, reinstall the companion software or bridge, and verify OS-level permissions that might block devices. If you suspect device tampering or encounter unexpected prompts, stop and contact official support rather than following unverified third-party advice.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I install companion software on multiple computers?
- Yes. You can install the companion app on any trusted computer. The recovery phrase allows you to restore access on another device.
- What happens if I lose my recovery phrase?
- If you lose the recovery phrase and do not have another backup, you risk permanent loss of access. Create multiple, secure offline backups to avoid this.
- Should I update firmware right away?
- Firmware updates often contain security fixes. Follow official guidance and verify update authenticity before applying. If unsure, consult official support resources.
Support & official resources
Use official support channels for device-specific instructions, verified troubleshooting steps, and security advisories. Official resources typically include setup guides, knowledge-base articles, videos, and community forums. Prefer these sources over unverified third-party instructions.
This neutral guide provides a safe, general workflow for setting up and using a hardware wallet. For device-specific details and the latest guidance, always consult the manufacturer’s official documentation and support pages.