DeviceStart

Guides for safe device setup & desktop wallet connection

Start your device — simple, secure device setup

Whether you’re new to hardware wallets or refreshing your setup, this guide shows how to start your device, connect to the desktop wallet, verify downloads, protect your recovery phrase, and send & receive crypto safely. Follow these steps to complete a secure hardware wallet setup and manage crypto with confidence.

Start Steps Security Tips

Step-by-step device setup (device setup, hardware wallet setup)

1. Inspect & unbox

When you first receive a device, inspect packaging for tampering. Do not start your device if packaging appears opened or modified. Confirm accessories are present and intact.

2. Download & verify desktop wallet

Download the desktop wallet for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux). Verify SHA256 checksums or PGP signatures provided on the official site. Verifying prevents fake installers from being used during your device setup.

3. Initialize the device

Follow on-device prompts to set a secure PIN and create the recovery phrase. Write the recovery phrase down on paper or a metal backup. Never take screenshots or store the phrase online.

4. Connect to the desktop wallet

Open the verified desktop wallet and follow the app’s connect flow. The app will show public addresses without exposing private keys. This lets you manage crypto and view balances securely on your computer.

5. Verify addresses & send a test

Verify the receiving address both in the desktop wallet and on the device display. Send a small test amount first — confirm the transaction completes as expected before moving larger balances.

6. Backup & recovery planning

Create multiple offline backups of your recovery phrase. Store backups separately (for example, one at home, one in a safe deposit box). Test restoring the backup to a second device using a small test balance to be confident the backup works.

Security essentials (secure device setup)

Security is layered: device hygiene, verified downloads, hardware verification of addresses, and offline backups. Avoid public Wi-Fi during setup, keep your OS patched, and never share your recovery phrase. Use a hardware signer for significant balances and enable optional PIN/passphrase features where available.

Troubleshooting

If the desktop wallet doesn’t detect your device, try a different cable, USB port, or computer. On some systems, you may need to grant USB permissions. If prompts look unexpected, disconnect and consult verified documentation or community support channels — never share your recovery phrase for troubleshooting.

Quick checklist

  • Inspect packaging and accessories
  • Download desktop wallet and verify signature/checksum
  • Initialize device: set PIN and write recovery phrase
  • Connect device to desktop wallet and verify addresses
  • Send a small test transaction
  • Make multiple offline backups and test recovery
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