Overview
A hardware wallet keeps private keys on a dedicated device that is separate from your computer. Proper setup reduces the risk of accidental exposure, phishing, and loss. This guide covers common steps used by many hardware wallet vendors and includes practical security guidance. Always consult your device vendor’s official documentation for exact, model-specific instructions.
Preparation — what to gather before you begin
Before you start, make sure you have: the hardware device, the USB cable supplied with it, a computer you control, a notebook or recovery card (not a digital file), a pen, and secure storage options for your recovery material. Avoid public or untrusted computers and networks when initializing a wallet.
Download and verify companion software
Use the vendor’s official start page to download the recommended companion application (desktop or web flow). Prefer official links and verify checksums or signatures when they are provided. Verifying ensures the installer has not been tampered with and is an important step when you prepare to connect your device.
Step-by-step setup (typical flow)
The following sequence represents a widely used, safe flow. Follow on-screen instructions from the vendor’s app for exact prompts.
- Inspect packaging: Check for tamper-evident seals and damage. If packaging looks altered, contact support before proceeding.
- Install companion software: Run the verified installer and launch the application. If a local connector (bridge) is required, install it according to vendor guidance.
- Connect the device: Attach the device via the supplied cable. The companion app should detect the hardware and offer a guided setup.
- Create a device PIN: Choose a strong PIN and keep it secret. The PIN protects the device when it is connected or if it is lost.
- Generate the recovery seed: Create the recovery seed on the device itself. Write down the words exactly on the supplied recovery card or a notebook; do not store them digitally.
- Verify the seed: The app will typically ask you to confirm a selection of words. Confirming ensures you recorded the seed correctly.
- Finalize setup: Complete device naming and initial account setup. Send a small test amount to confirm receiving addresses and transaction flow.
Recovery seed protection & storage
The recovery seed is the single point of recovery for your wallet. Treat it as you would a high-value physical asset: keep it offline, do not photograph it, and avoid storing it in cloud services or on digital devices. Consider long-term, fire-resistant storage methods for high-value holdings.
Common backup options
- Record the seed on the supplied recovery card and store it in a locked location.
- Consider a metal backup for protection against fire and water damage.
- Advanced users may choose split-seed approaches (Shamir backup or manual split) — fully understand trade-offs before using these.
Daily use & transaction hygiene
For everyday use, keep the device disconnected when not in use. When sending funds, connect the hardware, create the transaction in the companion app, and confirm each detail on the device. Avoid approving transactions from unfamiliar prompts and verify recipient addresses for high-value transfers.
Troubleshooting — common problems and fixes
If the device is not detected: try a different USB cable or port, reboot your computer, reinstall the companion software or bridge, and check OS security settings that could block device access. If you encounter firmware errors or unexpected behavior, stop and consult official support rather than using third-party fixes.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I install the companion software on multiple computers?
- Yes. The companion app can generally be installed on any machine you trust; the recovery seed allows you to restore the wallet on another device if needed.
- What if I lose my recovery seed?
- Without a recovery seed, you will likely lose access to funds. Create redundant offline backups and store them in secure locations to avoid this situation.
- Should I update firmware immediately?
- Firmware updates often include security fixes; follow vendor guidance and verify update authenticity before applying. If unsure, consult official support channels.
Support & official resources
Use the vendor’s official support pages and knowledge base for model-specific instructions, verified troubleshooting steps, and security advisories. Official resources often include step-by-step videos, downloadable guides, and community forums—prefer these over unverified third-party advice.
This guide provides a general, safe workflow for setting up a hardware wallet. For device-specific details and the latest security recommendations, always consult the manufacturer’s official documentation and support channels.