Welcome — why a hardware wallet?
A hardware wallet stores the private keys that control your crypto offline. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, hardware devices keep your keys physically separated from the internet — reducing exposure to malware, phishing and third-party custody risks. This guide walks you through initial setup, safety tips, everyday usage, and best practices to keep your assets safe.
Quick setup — 5 easy steps
Unbox & verify
When you receive your device, inspect packaging for tamper evidence. Only use the official companion app from the official website to initialize the device. Never accept a pre-initialized device from an unknown source.
Initialize offline
Follow on-device prompts to create a new wallet. Choose a strong PIN. The device will generate a recovery phrase — a series of words that can restore your wallet if the device is lost. This phrase must be kept secret and offline.
Record your recovery phrase securely
Write the recovery words on the included recovery card (or use a metal backup) and store in at least two secure locations. Never store the phrase as a photo, in cloud storage, or on a device connected to the internet.
Install companion app
Install the official companion app on your computer or phone to manage accounts, sign transactions, and check balances. Always confirm the app's domain before downloading and keep it updated.
Practice a small transfer
Before moving large sums, do a small test transaction to confirm everything is working end-to-end — address generation, confirmations, and receiving addresses. Verify addresses on the device display, not only the app.
Everyday use & best practices
- Always verify transaction details on the device screen before approving.
- Keep firmware and the companion software up to date from official channels.
- Use passphrase options only if you understand the implications — loss of passphrase means permanent loss of funds if forgotten.
- Consider a dedicated, offline storage for recovery backups such as metal plates to protect against fire, water, and decay.
- Use multiple, geographically separated backups — this reduces single-point-of-failure risk.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Don’t enter your recovery phrase into websites or apps — legitimate services never ask for it.
- Don’t share photos of your seed; images can leak via backups and cloud services.
- Avoid using public or untrusted USB chargers when connecting your device to a computer.
Glossary — quick definitions
Private key: A secret number that proves ownership of crypto funds. The hardware wallet secures this key offline. Recovery phrase (seed): Human-readable set of words derived from the private key — used to restore accounts. Firmware: Internal software on your device that must be authentic and up-to-date.