🛑 **CRITICAL SECURITY NOTICE:** Always verify the URL and ensure you are using software downloaded only from the official source. Never share your recovery seed with anyone.
1. Getting Started: What You Need
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the secure setup of your new hardware device. Before you begin, please ensure you have the following items ready. This initial phase is crucial for ensuring the long-term security of your digital assets and digital identity. Dedicate at least 30 uninterrupted minutes to this process.
Prerequisites Checklist:
- Your new hardware device, securely unboxed.
- The official USB cable provided with the device.
- A reliable, internet-connected computer (not shared).
- Two pieces of paper and a pen to write down your **Recovery Seed**.
2. Step-by-Step Initialization Process
Follow these steps in the exact order presented. Do not skip any steps, especially those involving the creation and backup of your Recovery Seed.
- **Connect Your Device:** Use the official USB cable to connect your device to your computer. The device screen should light up and display a welcome message.
- **Install the Necessary Software:** Navigate to the official download page (Placeholder URL) and download the desktop application. **Verify the digital signature** of the installer before running it.
- **Update Firmware:** The application will prompt you to update your device's firmware. This step is vital for security. Confirm the action both on your computer and physically on your device.
- **Create a New Wallet:** Select the option to "Create New Wallet." This action will initiate the generation of your unique **Recovery Seed**.
- **The Recovery Seed Backup (MOST IMPORTANT STEP):** Your device will display 12, 18, or 24 words one-by-one. **Carefully write down** each word on the paper you prepared. Double-check your spelling! *Do not* take a photo. *Do not* store it on your computer.
- **Set a PIN:** Choose a strong PIN of at least 6 digits. Enter the PIN using the randomized screen on your computer and confirm it on your device. This PIN protects against physical access to the device.
- **Final Verification:** The software may prompt you to re-enter a few words of your Recovery Seed to ensure your backup is correct. Complete this verification.
- **Setup Complete:** Once all steps are finished, your device is initialized, protected by a PIN, and your recovery phrase is safely stored offline.
3. Ongoing Security and Best Practices
Initialization is only the first step. Maintaining a high level of security requires continuous vigilance and adherence to these best practices:
- **Safeguard Your Seed:** Store your written Recovery Seed in a secure location (e.g., a safe or safety deposit box) that only you can access. Consider using multiple locations.
- **Never Enter Your Seed Online:** The Recovery Seed should **NEVER** be typed into a computer or smartphone. Only enter it directly into the hardware wallet device if you are performing a recovery.
- **Regularly Check for Updates:** Periodically check the official application for firmware and software updates to ensure you have the latest security patches.