A clear, secure and user-friendly walkthrough to set up your hardware wallet, protect your recovery phrase, and safely perform your first transactions.
Introduction
Welcome! This guide helps you start your Trezor-style hardware device with confidence. It explains every step in plain language: powering the device, initializing it, creating or restoring a recovery, connecting to companion software, and basic troubleshooting. Security is the top priority — follow the recommendations closely and never share your recovery phrase with anyone.
Quick safety rule: Your recovery phrase is the single most important secret. Keep it offline, private, and safe.
Before you start — what to prepare
A clean workspace free from cameras and prying eyes.
Your device, original cable, and a trusted computer — preferably updated and malware-free.
Pen and paper (or a metal backup plate) for writing your recovery phrase — never store it digitally.
Time and patience — plan about 15–25 minutes for the initial setup.
Do not: Enter your recovery phrase into a computer, phone, or cloud service. Do not take photos of it. Do not share it with “support” or anyone who contacts you unsolicited.
Step 1 — Powering and connecting
Connect your device to your computer using the provided cable. The device should power on and show a welcome screen or logo. If nothing appears, try a different USB port or cable. Some devices offer a small built-in battery and may require a short charge before first use.
On the host computer, open the official companion app or the recommended web start page. Always visit the manufacturer’s verified start page for downloads and instructions — double-check the domain to avoid phishing.
Pro tip: When in doubt, verify the device’s firmware signature using the companion app before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2 — Initialize the device
Choose whether to create a new recovery (recommended for first-time users) or to restore an existing one. If you create a new recovery, your device will generate a random recovery phrase (usually 12, 18, or 24 words). Follow the device prompts carefully: write the words in order, check the spelling, and keep the list secure.
Choose “Create new wallet” on the device or in the companion app.
Write down each recovery word in the order shown; do not skip or reorder them.
Confirm a few words when prompted to ensure the backup is correct.
Durability tip: Consider stamping your recovery onto a metal backup plate to protect against fire and water damage.
Step 3 — Set a PIN and label your device
Your device will ask you to create a PIN. Choose a length and digits you can remember but which are not easily guessed. A device PIN prevents immediate access if your hardware is lost or stolen. Avoid easily discoverable numbers like birthdays or repeated digits.
Assigning a label helps you identify the device when multiple hardware wallets are present. Do not include personal information in the label.
Remember: The PIN is device-specific and does not replace the recovery phrase. If you forget your PIN and the device supports a recovery option, you will need your recovery phrase to regain access.
Step 4 — Install companion software and update firmware
Install the official companion software if you haven’t already. Use only the vendor-provided download link or an official app store. After connecting, check for firmware updates; installing the latest signed firmware improves security and reliability. Follow on-screen instructions exactly during firmware updates and never disconnect until the update completes.
Verification: Good companion software will verify firmware signatures. If you see warnings or mismatched signatures, stop and seek verified help from the official support channels.
Step 5 — Sending and receiving cryptocurrency (first transaction)
Practice small transactions first. To receive funds, generate a receiving address in the companion app while the device is connected and confirm the address on the device screen. Confirming on the device ensures the address hasn’t been tampered with by your computer.
To send funds, create the transaction in the app, verify the destination address and amount on the device display, and confirm. The device will sign the transaction with the private keys stored internally — your private keys never leave the device.
Small test: Send a small test amount first (often called a “dust test”) to confirm everything is working as expected before large transfers.
Security best practices
Never disclose your recovery phrase — no legitimate support will ever ask for it.
Store your recovery offline in multiple physical locations if possible (safes, bank safety deposit box).
Use tamper-evident packaging and inspect the device when you receive it — only use devices from trusted vendors.
Keep companion software and firmware up to date; stay informed about security notices from the vendor.
Troubleshooting common issues
Device not powering on
Try a different cable and USB port. If the device uses an internal battery, connect it to power for 30 minutes then try again.
Companion app doesn’t detect the device
Restart the app and computer. Ensure the device is unlocked and the correct USB permissions are granted. Try another browser or reinstall the app.
Recovery phrase lost or damaged
If you cannot find your recovery phrase, and you still have access to the device, immediately create a new wallet and transfer funds to the new wallet — then securely back up the new recovery phrase. If both the device and recovery are lost, funds may be irrecoverable.
Frequently asked questions
Can I store my recovery phrase digitally?
No. Digital storage (cloud, photo, text file) is susceptible to theft. Always keep recovery phrases offline.
What if my device is stolen?
If your device is stolen but your recovery is safe, transfer funds to a new device as soon as possible. If the thief knows your recovery phrase, act immediately — move funds to a new recovery.
Do I need to keep my device connected?
No. Hardware wallets are designed so you only connect them when signing transactions. Keeping the device offline except when needed reduces attack surface.