Welcome! This guide walks you through the full setup process for your new hardware cryptocurrency wallet. You'll learn how to initialize your device, create a secure recovery seed, install the companion application, and safely send or receive digital assets. Whether you're new to crypto or upgrading your security, this guide gives you everything you need to get started with confidence.
Before beginning the setup process, make sure you have:
A brand-new, untampered hardware wallet — purchased directly from the official store or an authorized reseller.
A secure device — a trusted phone or computer free of malware.
A private internet connection — avoid public Wi-Fi.
Pen and secure storage — this is for your recovery seed backup.
When opening the box, inspect the packaging carefully. Your hardware wallet should arrive sealed, intact, and without signs of tampering. Many manufacturers use shrinkwrap, security seals, or holographic indicators to ensure authenticity.
Inside the box, you should typically find:
The hardware wallet device
USB cable or connector
Quick-start card or instruction sheet
Blank recovery seed sheets
Optional accessories or stickers
Important: If anything looks suspicious or appears opened, stop immediately and contact customer support before proceeding.
Use the included cable to plug your hardware wallet into your computer. You'll be instructed to open the official companion website or install the desktop/mobile app. Always type the address manually or use a verified bookmark. Do not trust ad links or unknown search results.
On first connection, the device may ask to update its firmware. Allow the update to complete fully and keep the device connected until the update finishes.
Once firmware is up to date, choose the option to create a new wallet. The device will generate your private keys internally and create your recovery seed — a list of 12, 18, or 24 words that serves as your ultimate backup.
Write the words on paper only. Never store your seed digitally.
Keep the seed offline in a protected location. Consider a safe, vault, or secure storage container.
Never share your seed. No legitimate support or app will ever ask for it.
Consider a metal backup. This protects against fire, water, and physical damage.
Your wallet will display each word one at a time. Write them in order, then confirm them on the device to ensure accuracy.
The companion application is where you manage your crypto, view balances, create accounts, and initiate transactions. Even though you interact through the app, your private keys always stay securely inside the hardware wallet.
Install the application on your preferred device, open it, and follow the on-screen instructions until your wallet is fully recognized.
Open the companion application.
Select the cryptocurrency you want to manage.
Click Add Account.
Name the account for easier organization.
Choose your desired account and select "Receive."
A new receiving address will be generated.
Confirm the address directly on your hardware wallet's screen.
Share the address or scan the QR code to receive funds into your wallet.
Privacy Tip: Most wallets generate a fresh address each time, enhancing your privacy. All generated addresses still belong to your account.
Sending funds also requires verifying all details on the hardware device itself, ensuring maximum protection.
Open the app and select the correct account.
Click "Send" and enter the recipient's address.
Input the amount and adjust the network fee if needed.
Review all details on the hardware wallet's screen and physically confirm the transaction.
Follow these best practices to keep your wallet safe:
Use a strong, unique PIN code on your device.
Regularly update firmware and the companion app.
Beware of phishing—always verify website URLs.
Avoid public Wi-Fi for wallet operations.
Consider enabling an optional passphrase ("25th word") for advanced security.
Your crypto remains safe as long as your recovery seed is secure. To restore your wallet, simply:
Obtain a new hardware wallet.
Select the option to restore or recover a wallet.
Enter your recovery seed directly on the device.
After restoring, your accounts and balances will reappear inside the companion application.
You're all set. With your wallet configured, your recovery seed safely stored, and the companion app installed, your digital assets are now protected by one of the most secure methods available. Take a moment to explore your accounts, test a small transaction, and get familiar with the interface. Your hardware wallet is now your personal, secure crypto vault.
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