How to use a crypto hardware wallet in 2025

TL;DR

This guide shows you how to set up and use a crypto hardware wallet, using the Trezor Safe 3 as an example. You’ll learn to safely store Bitcoin, Ethereum and other assets offline, with clear steps for wallet setup, seed phrase backup, PIN protection and secure transaction signing. The article also explains how to connect your hardware wallet to MetaMask for use with DeFi platforms and NFTs – all while keeping your private keys offline. Whether you’re comparing the best hardware wallets in 2025 or need a crypto wallet tutorial for receiving and sending funds, this guide has you covered with actionable tips and best practices for long-term cold storage security.

If you’re ready to take crypto wallet security seriously, using a hardware wallet is one of the best steps you can take. 

You may already be aware of its advantages over a software wallet: keeping your private keys offline, minimizing exposure to malware and giving you full ownership of your crypto assets. Maybe you’ve even picked out your device.

The good news? While there are several options out there, from Ledger to Trezor to newer multichain hardware wallets, the basic experience is similar. This hardware wallet setup guide will walk you through unboxing, verifying the device, securing your PIN and backing up your seed phrase.

For illustration purposes, this article uses the Trezor Safe 3, an ideal device for beginners but powerful enough for advanced users. It’s also a great choice if you want to use a hardware wallet for DeFi or connect your hardware wallet to MetaMask.

Let’s get into it.

Unboxing your crypto cold wallet

Before you begin setup, here’s what comes with a typical hardware wallet, in this case, the Trezor Safe 3. This applies to most of the best hardware wallets in 2025.

What’s in the box:

First steps: Inspect and verify

Before plugging anything in, check for:

• Sealed, undamaged packaging.

• Intact holographic sticker over the USB port.

This ensures your device hasn’t been tampered with, a crucial crypto wallet security tip. Newer devices (post-April 2024) have upgraded seals for added air-gapped security.

If anything looks suspicious, contact Trezor support.

Power it up

Peel the sticker and connect via USB — the Safe 3 powers on automatically, and no battery or power button is needed.

You’ll notice a small screen and two physical buttons. These are how you’ll confirm actions, approve transactions and manage your crypto.

Let’s begin the setup.

Hardware wallet setup: Trezor Safe 3

Getting started takes about 10–15 minutes. For this crypto hardware wallet tutorial, just have your computer ready and a pen handy. You’ll soon need to write down something very important.

Step 1: Download Trezor Suite

Go to the official Trezor site and download the Trezor Suite app. It’s available on Windows, macOS, Linux and via web browser.

Open it, plug in your device and follow the prompts. Click “Set up my Trezor.”

Step 2: Install firmware

Your device may not come with firmware pre-installed. Click “Install Firmware.” This is part of the crypto wallet recovery process and ensures a secure, clean slate.

Step 3: Verify device authenticity

Click “Let’s check your device” in Trezor Suite. Press the right button on your Safe 3 to authenticate. You’ll see a message confirming the device is verified.

Step 4: Quick tutorial

The device might walk you through button usage. Just follow along, it’s a one-time setup.

Step 5: Create a new wallet

You’ll see two options:

• Create new wallet (choose this if it’s your first time).

• Recover wallet (for restoring, using your seed phrase).

Step 6: Backup method

You’ll choose between:

• Standard seed backup (easiest and most common).

• Shamir backup (advanced; splits the seed into parts).

Stick with standard, unless you’re sure you know what you’re doing.

Step 7: Confirm on device

Use the buttons to confirm your backup method and agree to terms. Press “Create wallet” to proceed.

Step 8: Write down your recovery seed

This is the heart of your cold storage for crypto. The device will generate a random list of 12, 20 or 24 words, your recovery seed.

Trezor will remind you not to take photos or digital notes of the seed. Write it down on the provided card and store your crypto seed phrase safely. This is critical for future recovery.

Step 9: Confirm the seed

You’ll be tested on a few of the words (e.g., “What’s word #5?”). Select the correct ones using the buttons. Once confirmed, your backup is complete.

Pro tip: Make a second copy of your seed and store it in a different secure location. This adds an extra layer of protection.

Step 10: Set up a PIN

Now, create your hardware wallet PIN. In Trezor Suite, click “Set PIN.” The device will prompt you with a randomized layout. Use the buttons to choose your digits.

PINs can be up to 50 digits long. Choose something memorable, but not obvious. If forgotten, you’ll need to wipe the wallet and recover with the seed phrase.

Step 11: Enable coins and final…