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Guide

Tutorial: How to use hardware wallets

Updated: May 22, 2025
Published: May 20, 2025
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Protect your crypto assets: a comprehensive guide to setting up, using, and maximizing security with hardware wallets

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Video Tutorial

Understanding blockchain transactions

First, let’s explain how transactions on the blockchain work. Every transaction needs two key components: a private key and a partially signed transaction. The private key is unique to each wallet and fully signs the transaction, proving you're the owner of the crypto. The transaction includes details like the amount, date, and recipient's address. Together, they create a verified transaction, which is then broadcasted to the validators. Validators then confirm it and add it to the blockchain. All transactions can be publicly verified without compromising the private key by just seeing the signature, thanks to complex mathematical rules, known as cryptography. So, what does this have to do with hardware wallets? If your computer is infected with malware, your private key can be stolen, leading to the loss of your crypto. Hardware wallets protect against this by keeping your private key offline, a method known as cold storage. These devices, which look like small USB drives, are designed to store keys and sign transactions securely.

Set up you hardware wallet

When you first get your hardware wallet, you'll need to set it up. To interact with your hardware wallet, you'll need to download a program to your computer. This program acts as the intermediary between your hardware wallet and the blockchain. Since the hardware wallet itself doesn’t have internet access, the program facilitates communication, allowing you to manage your crypto securely. So connect it to your computer and follow the manufacturer's instructions. You'll create a PIN code and get a recovery phrase (12-24 words). You need this phrase to recover your wallet if you lose or damage it, so write it down on paper and store it safely.

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Use your hardware wallet

To transfer crypto to your hardware wallet, use this program. It will provide a public address for receiving crypto. Send your crypto from your exchange or current wallet to this address. The private key used to sign the transaction never leaves the hardware wallet, keeping it secure. When you want to send crypto, use the app to enter the recipient’s address and amount. The hardware wallet prompts you to confirm the transaction, ensuring you keep the private key secure even if malware compromises your computer.

Advantages and hardware alternatives

The main advantage of hardware wallets is enhanced security. Your private key is offline, making it much less vulnerable to hacking. Even if your computer has malware, your private key remains safe. This makes hardware wallets ideal for long-term crypto storage. Regarding the two main hardware wallet options, Ledger and Trezor are the most popular. Ledger devices, like the Ledger Nano S and Nano X, offer robust security features, a sleek design, and Bluetooth functionality (Nano X) for mobile use. Trezor wallets, including the Model One and Model T, have a user-friendly interface and open-source software, offering greater transparency. Notably, the Trezor Model T includes a touchscreen, enhancing its usability and making it easier to operate directly on the device. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference regarding interface and additional features like Bluetooth or touchscreen capabilities. By using a hardware wallet, you can rest assured that your crypto is safe.

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