CryptoStart — Begin with Your Secure Device (Template)

A simple, secure onboarding guide for hardware crypto devices.

Set up your hardware device with confidence — step-by-step and privacy-first

This guide helps new users get their hardware crypto device ready for daily use. It focuses on security best practices, easy-to-follow steps, and clear recovery guidance so users can manage keys and sign transactions safely. Use this page as a template for an onboarding flow that builds trust and keeps sensitive operations on-device.

Unbox & verify

Check tamper seals, confirm the device packaging, and verify signatures or checksums on the release page before connecting.

Install companion app

Download the official desktop installer or open the web companion from a verified URL. Always confirm code signatures and checksums.

Create device PIN & seed

Set a strong local PIN and record your recovery seed on paper or a secure metal backup. Never store the seed digitally.

Pair & test

Pair the device with the companion app, confirm on-device prompts, and run a small test transaction to verify signing behavior.

Why hardware devices?

Hardware devices isolate private keys from your online computer, reducing the risk of remote theft. They combine strong cryptography with on-device confirmation for important operations.

Recovery & backups

Back up your recovery phrase securely and verify backups regularly. Consider encrypted, geographically separated backups for long-term holdings.

Clear language and accessible guidance

Use plain language and avoid jargon when guiding new users. Show each step visually, include keyboard and screen-reader accessibility notes, and keep inline help short. A friendly tone reduces anxiety and increases the chance users follow safety-critical steps like writing down their recovery phrase.

Developer & deployment recommendations

For teams publishing a companion app or web flow: sign installers and archives, publish checksums and verification instructions, and document integration APIs for secure communication channels. Maintain a changelog and a public security disclosure process to encourage responsible reporting.

Privacy & telemetry

Make telemetry opt-in and describe clearly what is collected. Avoid collecting wallet addresses or transaction metadata by default. If telemetry is enabled, provide a way for users to view, export, and delete their data.

Support & recovery

Offer step-by-step recovery guides, troubleshooting FAQs, and a clear contact path for support. Encourage users to test their backups with non-critical accounts to ensure they can restore successfully.