Trezor.io/Start — Official Setup Guide

A friendly, step-by-step, security-first walkthrough to start using your Trezor hardware wallet. This guide covers everything from unboxing to secure backup, firmware verification, and everyday use best practices.

Why use a hardware wallet?

Hardware wallets like Trezor are dedicated devices that keep your private keys offline and under your control. Compared with software wallets on phones or desktops, hardware wallets dramatically reduce the attack surface: even if your computer is compromised, the private keys never leave the device.

Core benefits

  • Air-gapped security: Private keys are generated and stored on the device, not on your computer.
  • Transaction verification: The device displays details so you can confirm recipient addresses and amounts before signing.
  • Recoverable seed: Using a recovery seed (mnemonic phrase) lets you recover funds if the device is lost or damaged.

Who should use this guide?

This guide is written for new Trezor owners and for anyone who wants a secure, clear, and colorful walkthrough of the trusted setup process. If you are moving large amounts of value, perform extra diligence (read the security section).

Before you begin

Prepare the essentials before unboxing and powering on your device.

Checklist

  • Strong, unique passphrase manager or secure notebook for storing the recovery seed (if you choose physical backup).
  • A computer with a modern browser (Trezor Suite or the official start page will guide the process).
  • USB cable that fits the device and a reliable power source.
  • Time and patience — the secure initial setup takes a few minutes but is worth the attention.

Important safety notes

Never initialize your Trezor with a device that has been tampered with, and never share your recovery seed with anyone. Trezor or any support representative will never ask you for your full recovery seed.

Official setup steps (step-by-step)

1

Unbox and Inspect

Carefully open the box and check for tampering. A genuine device will include the hardware, setup cards with the recovery seed area (if included), and manufacturer packaging. If anything looks tampered with, contact the seller or the official channels before proceeding.

2

Connect to a computer and visit the start page

Plug the device into your computer using the supplied cable. Open your browser and visit https://trezor.io/start or launch the official Trezor Suite application. Follow on-screen prompts. The device will display a welcome message and the current firmware state.

3

Install official software (Trezor Suite)

The official Trezor Suite or start page will prompt you to install helper software or browser bridge if needed. Prefer the official download links and verify certificates when possible. When in doubt, download directly from the official domain (see Resources below).

Tip

Use a fresh browser profile or a secure machine if you suspect your system might be compromised.

4

Check firmware and update if needed

The Trezor may prompt a firmware update. Firmware updates fix vulnerabilities and add features — only install firmware when prompted by the official suite. Always verify the device displays expected prompts and confirms the update on the device screen before accepting.

5

Create a new wallet (generate recovery seed)

Choose “Create new” to generate a fresh recovery seed (12, 18, or 24 words depending on your preference). The device displays words one by one — write them down in order on the supplied card or a secure notebook. Never store your seed digitally unless it is encrypted in a vault you fully control.

Seed safety

Treat the seed like the keys to your safe: anyone with access to it can control your funds. Consider steel backups for long-term durability if holding significant value.

6

Set a PIN

A PIN protects your device against physical access. Set a PIN you can remember but that is not easily guessable. The PIN is entered on the device screen, and even if your computer is compromised the PIN entry is isolated on the device.

7

Verify recovery seed

The device will typically ask you to confirm words to verify you wrote them down correctly. Follow the device prompts. This step ensures that you can recover the wallet if the device is lost.

8

Optional: Add a passphrase (hidden wallet)

A passphrase adds another secret word to your seed — effectively creating a hidden wallet. Use this only if you understand the implications: passphrase loss = permanent loss of the hidden wallet. Use strong, memorable passphrases or a secure password manager.

9

Receive and verify an address

When receiving funds, always verify the receiving address on your Trezor display against the address shown in the software. This prevents address-replacement attacks from malware on your computer.

10

Back up and store securely

Store your written seed in a safe place (e.g., a fireproof safe or secure deposit box). Consider multiple geographically separated backups for redundancy. If you used a passphrase, keep its storage equally secure.

Security best practices

Never share your recovery seed

No official support will ever ask for your recovery seed. Treat it as the highest-value secret you own.

Use official sources

Always download software and firmware from the official domain and verify signatures where available. When using links in email or chat, be cautious — prefer manually typed official addresses or bookmarks.

Physical security

Keep your device and backups physically secure. If someone obtains both your device and your seed, they can steal funds. Consider multi-signature arrangements for very large holdings to reduce single-point-of-failure risk.

Operational security (OpSec)

  • Use strong, unique passwords for associated accounts like email and exchange accounts.
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on services where appropriate.
  • Consider using a dedicated, minimal-privilege machine for signing transactions if you are high-risk.

Troubleshooting & common issues

Device not recognized

If your computer doesn't recognize the device, check the cable, try different USB ports, and ensure any required helper app (e.g., Trezor Bridge / Suite) is installed. Reboot the computer if necessary.

Firmware update failed

Follow on-screen instructions. If a firmware update fails repeatedly, disconnect and reconnect the device, and try with Trezor Suite. Do not enter your seed into any software to recover — contact official support if you suspect a problem.

I lost my recovery seed

If you lost your seed and still have access to the device, create a new wallet immediately and transfer funds. If both device and seed are lost, recovery is impossible.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can I store many different cryptocurrencies?
A: Trezor supports many coins and tokens. Use the official app to view supported assets and manage them. Some tokens require separate interfaces or bridges.
Q: Can I export my private key?
A: Avoid exporting private keys. The main security benefit is that keys remain on the device. Exporting them removes that protection.
Q: What if my device is stolen?
A: If the thief doesn't have your seed or PIN, your funds remain safe. If the seed was compromised, move funds to a new wallet immediately.

Quick checklist to finish setup

  • Device inspected and genuine
  • Official software installed from the official domain
  • Firmware updated (if prompted)
  • PIN set and memorized
  • Recovery seed written down and stored securely (test verified)
  • Test transaction: send a small amount to confirm everything works

Final security tip

A single small test transaction is the easiest way to ensure you and the device are working properly before moving larger amounts.