Welcome — Why secure hardware matters
A hardware wallet isolates your private keys from the internet, dramatically reducing the risk of remote compromise. Setting up a hardware wallet correctly is critical: a good setup protects your funds, prevents accidental exposure of seed phrases, and helps you recover your wallet if the device is lost or damaged.
Step-by-step secure setup (illustrated)
- Unbox only from trusted sources. Purchase official hardware from the manufacturer or verified resellers. Avoid second-hand devices for initial setup.
- Verify device authenticity. Check holograms, tamper-evident seals and the manufacturer’s verification methods before connecting to any computer.
- Initialize offline when possible. Use the device's screen and buttons to generate a seed — the private keys should never be typed into a computer or transmitted as text.
- Write your recovery seed on paper or metal. Use durable media — paper can degrade, so consider a metal backup for long-term storage. Never store the seed as an unencrypted file or photo.
- Create a PIN and a passphrase (optional). A PIN prevents local access to the device; an optional passphrase adds a second layer of protection but also increases recovery complexity.
- Install wallet software from official sources only. Download software from the manufacturer's official website and verify signatures if provided.
- Test a small transaction. Before moving large amounts, send a small amount to the new wallet to confirm everything works as expected.
Practical security tips
- Never share your seed phrase. No legitimate service will ever ask for it.
- Keep multiple backups of your recovery seed in different secure locations.
- Consider a multisig setup for additional protection of large holdings.
- Use strong, unique passwords for any associated accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
- Periodically verify your backup and review your recovery plan.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I set up my Trezor without an internet connection?
- Yes. The seed generation and PIN creation can be completed using the device itself. Only when broadcasting transactions is internet required.
- What should I do if my seed is lost?
- If you lose the only copy of your recovery seed and you don't have another backup, funds may be unrecoverable. Always create more than one secure backup in separate locations.
- Is a passphrase required?
- No — it is optional. A passphrase provides an additional hidden wallet but requires you to remember it; if lost, the passphrase-protected funds are inaccessible.
Final notes
This page is an educational template describing secure setup practices. The sign-up form to the right is for receiving official updates and onboarding reminders. Never paste your seed, private key, or any sensitive recovery material into a web form — this form only collects non-sensitive contact details and preferences.