Why setup & recovery deserve attention
Most user mistakes that lead to loss occur during setup or recovery. A correct setup protects private keys; a confident recovery restores access when needed. This guide walks you through every step — from unboxing to validating your seed, to safe long-term storage and emergency plans — emphasizing human errors to avoid and concrete measures to reduce risk.
Before you unbox — preparation checklist
Work on a clean, well-lit surface. Use a trusted computer only when required. Have pen and paper ready (or a metal backup plate). Avoid taking photos or typing your seed. If possible, perform the first setup offline in a private space — social exposure increases risk of shoulder-surfing or accidental capture.
Step 1: power on & verify
Power the device and inspect the packaging for tamper evidence. Verify the manufacturer’s authenticity instructions (serial number checks, holograms, tamper seals). When the device boots, confirm the expected startup screens. If anything looks off — stop and contact the vendor directly.
Step 2: create PIN & write seed
Follow on-device prompts to set a PIN. Use a PIN that is memorable but not trivially guessable. When shown seed words, write them down in the exact order. Double-check each word. Never store the seed in a photo, password manager, cloud drive, or on a computer. A metal plate or laminate protected card is ideal for long-term survivability.
Step 3: optional passphrase & advanced options
Passphrases create hidden wallets — a valuable privacy and security tool but also a usability trap: losing the passphrase means irreversible loss. Document policies for passphrase use (who knows it, where it’s stored) and practice recovery with a small test amount before moving mainnet funds.
Step 4: verifying addresses & transactions
Always verify receiving addresses on the device screen, not just the host. When signing transactions, check the amount and destination on-device. Attackers can tamper with host displays — the device’s display is the single source of truth for what you sign.
Recovery practice & testing
Practice recovery on a new device using your seed and optional passphrase in a safe environment. Test sending/receiving small sums before trusting large transfers. For enterprise setups, test multi-sig and emergency procedures with documented steps and responsible parties.
Final advice
✓ Treat your seed like a vault key — protect it physically. ✓ Use metal backups where possible. ✓ Document your recovery plan and review annually. With careful setup and disciplined habits, your hardware wallet can secure your assets for decades.