How to use a crypto hardware wallet: A step-by-step guide

You can set up and use a crypto hardware wallet in just a few steps. Learn how to get started, secure your keys and safely manage your assets.
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.