Trezor.io/Start® — Starting Up Your Device — Trezor®

Welcome! This guide walks you through a clean, secure first-time setup of your Trezor hardware wallet. Always begin at Trezor.io/Start to avoid phishing and stale instructions.

What You Need (and What to Expect)

You’ll need your Trezor device (Model T or Model One), a computer with a modern browser, a stable internet connection for initial updates, and something to record your recovery seed on paper (or a suitable metal backup if you prefer). Setup takes only a few minutes, and you’ll create a device PIN, optionally enable a passphrase, and back up your recovery seed words. The steps below are arranged for maximum safety and clarity.

Before You Begin: Safety Essentials

Verify Packaging and Device Integrity

Inspect the tamper-evident seals and box. If anything looks off, stop and contact support before proceeding. Never use a pre-initialized device.

Use the Official Start Page

Type the URL manually, then bookmark it: Trezor.io/Start. Avoid search-engine ads and third-party “helper” sites. Browser autocomplete can be fooled—verify the certificate lock icon and domain spelling.

Step-by-Step Setup

1) Connect and Check for Updates

Connect your Trezor via the supplied cable. The official onboarding flow at Trezor.io/Start will guide you to install or update firmware if needed. Keep the device connected and avoid unplugging during updates.

2) Install Trezor Suite (Desktop App)

Download Trezor Suite for your operating system from the link provided on Trezor.io/Start. Use the desktop app rather than random browser extensions. After installation, open Suite and let it detect your device.

3) Initialize Your Device

In Trezor Suite, choose Create new wallet (never accept a wallet that already contains addresses). The device will generate your recovery seed words offline. Follow on-screen prompts on the device—never allow seed words to be entered on a website or shared with anyone.

Tip: Take It Slow on the Seed Screen

Carefully write the words in order, with legible handwriting. Store the backup securely, offline, and away from moisture and fire risks. Consider a metal backup for long-term durability.

4) Set a Strong PIN

You’ll be asked to create a PIN to protect local access. Choose a non-trivial sequence and avoid repeating digits. Memorize it; don’t store it digitally.

5) (Optional) Enable Passphrase

A passphrase adds another “something you know” to your wallet. Each unique passphrase opens a distinct wallet—perfect for plausible deniability. If you use this feature, create a passphrase you can reliably recall and have a strategy for secure memorization.

6) Verify Wallet Addresses

When receiving funds, always confirm the full address on your device screen. The device’s screen is the trusted display—never rely on the computer alone. The onboarding checklist in Suite, reached via Trezor.io/Start, covers this best practice in detail.

7) Make a Small Test Transaction

Before moving significant value, send a small amount to your new wallet and confirm it arrives. This tests both the receive flow and your comfort with confirmations and fees.

Backup & Recovery: Your Safety Net

Back Up Your Recovery Seed (Do Not Skip)

Your recovery seed is the ultimate key to your funds. Anyone with it can control your assets; without it, you cannot recover. Never take photos of the seed, never type it into a phone or computer, and never share it. The official guidance at Trezor.io/Start reinforces this rule. If you suspect compromise, immediately move funds to a new wallet with a fresh seed.

Tip: Redundancy Without Exposure

Consider geographically separated backups to mitigate fire, flood, or theft—balanced against the risk of more locations increasing exposure.

Practice a Dry-Run Recovery

When you’re comfortable, practice restoring on a safe device or during a maintenance window using the official steps at Trezor.io/Start. This builds confidence that you can recover under pressure.

Security Hardening & Daily Habits

Keep Firmware and Suite Current

Update via Trezor Suite and double-check the prompts. New releases fix bugs and improve security. Start from Trezor.io/Start whenever you need the authoritative path to the latest tools.

Device Handling

Unplug when not in use, avoid public computers, and shield your PIN entry. If you enable a passphrase, treat it like a second seed; one forgotten word can lock you out.

Tip: Transaction Vigilance

Always verify the destination address and amount on the device screen. Malware can alter clipboard contents—your device screen is the single source of truth.

Note on Scams and “Support” Impersonators

No legitimate support agent will ask for your seed or passphrase—ever. If anyone does, end the conversation and report it.

Troubleshooting & Support

Most setup issues resolve by following the official flow and reconnecting your device. If problems persist, begin again at Trezor.io/Start and consult the help resources linked there. Provide model, OS, Suite version, and a clear description of what you see on both your computer and device screens.

Quick Recap