Trezor.io/Start | Starting® Up® Your® Device® — Official Secure Guide

Compact, actionable, step-by-step instructions and security best practices for first-time setup and safe ongoing use.

Introduction — Why this matters

Hardware wallets like Trezor keep your cryptographic keys offline so they cannot be trivially stolen by online attackers. This guide walks you through safely unboxing, installing firmware, creating a secure wallet backup, and connecting to Trezor Suite so you can use your device with confidence.

What you’ll need before starting

Essentials

Tip: Keep packaging and check for tamper evidence before using the device. If you see tampering, contact official support.

Quick overview — step sequence

  1. Visit trezor.io/start and download the official Trezor Suite.
  2. Connect your device and install the latest firmware when prompted.
  3. Create a new wallet and record your backup (recovery seed / wallet backup).
  4. Set a PIN and optional passphrase / advanced settings.
  5. Verify everything works by receiving a small test amount.

Estimated typical time: about 15 minutes for a full initial setup on a fresh device.

Step-by-step setup

1. Start at the official start page

Open your browser and go to https://trezor.io/start. Download Trezor Suite (desktop or web) from the official site only. The site will guide you to the right files and verification instructions.

2. Connect and install firmware

Connect the Trezor to your computer. If the device shipped without firmware, Trezor Suite will prompt you to install the latest firmware — accept and follow on-screen prompts. Never use a device that refuses firmware installation or shows tampering signs.

3. Create wallet and backup

Create a wallet using the Suite UI. When prompted, write down the recovery words (wallet backup / seed phrase) exactly and in order on the supplied recovery card — this is the only way to recover assets if the device is lost. Store that backup offline in a safe place and consider multiple secure copies (vault / safe deposit box) depending on your risk model.

4. Set PIN & optional passphrase

Choose a strong PIN — not easily guessable and never written where others can find it. Optionally enable a passphrase (advanced feature) to create a hidden wallet; be sure you understand how passphrases affect recovery.

5. Final verification

Use Trezor Suite to confirm device health, and receive a small test amount to verify address and transaction flow before transferring larger sums.

Security best practices (short and practical)

Only official software

Always download Trezor Suite and firmware from official Trezor pages and verify installers where applicable.

Never share backup words

Your wallet backup (seed) gives full access to funds. Never enter it on websites or share it with anyone — treat it like the keys to a safe.

Check packaging & firmware prompts

If packaging is tampered with or the device behaves oddly during first boot, stop and contact support for a replacement.

Keep software updated

Run updates for Trezor Suite and firmware when released, but only via the official app prompts or official site instructions.

Troubleshooting — common issues

Device not detected

Try a different USB port/cable, restart the Suite, and consult official support. Avoid third-party connector apps that claim to “fix” device connectivity.

Lost backup

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

Final checklist before using