Trezor Start — Secure Setup Guide

Trezor Start

A clear, secure walkthrough to get your Trezor hardware wallet ready — from unboxing to your first safe transaction.

Overview

Trezor Start is designed to guide you through a secure, privacy-first setup for your Trezor hardware wallet. This page covers what you need, how to initialize the device, best practices for seed backup, and how to make your first transaction. Follow the steps carefully — hardware wallets protect your crypto by keeping private keys offline, so a cautious setup is essential.

What You’ll Need

  • Your new Trezor device (Model One or Model Model T).
  • A computer or phone with a USB port or compatible cable.
  • A secure, private space to write and store your recovery seed.
  • Optional: a hardware wallet companion (e.g., Ledger) only if you plan multi-signature setups.

Step-by-step Setup

  1. Unbox & Inspect: Ensure the packaging seal is intact. Confirm the device model and factory holograms (if present) match official Trezor materials.
  2. Connect to Computer: Plug your Trezor in using the supplied cable. Open Trezor Suite (recommended) or go to the official start page at trezor.io/start.
  3. Install Firmware: If prompted, install the latest firmware. Only accept firmware from the official interface — firmware ensures device integrity and security patches.
  4. Create a New Wallet: Choose “Create new wallet.” The device will generate a recovery seed (12–24 words). Write these words down in order on the provided recovery card. Do not photograph or store them digitally.
  5. Confirm Your Seed: The device will ask you to confirm select words. This verifies your backup is recorded correctly.
  6. Set a PIN: Choose a strong, unique PIN to protect the device locally. Use the device screen to enter the PIN; the computer will show placeholder numbers for security.
  7. Optional Passphrase: For extra security, enable a passphrase (acts like an additional secret word). Note: losing the passphrase means losing access — store it responsibly.
Important: Your recovery seed is the only backup. Trezor staff or support will never ask for it. Treat it like cash — keep it offline and secure.

First Transaction (Receive & Send)

  1. Open Trezor Suite and select the currency you wish to receive.
  2. Click Receive and verify the address displayed on your computer matches the address shown on the Trezor screen.
  3. Send a small test amount first to confirm everything is correct.
  4. To send funds, create a transaction in Suite, review details, and confirm on your Trezor device before final broadcast.

Best Practices & Troubleshooting

  • Never store seed words digitally (photos, cloud, notes apps).
  • Prefer metal backup plates for long-term seed durability.
  • If you lose your device, restore using your recovery phrase on a new Trezor or compatible wallet.
  • If firmware fails to install, retry using the official Suite and a known-good cable/port. Contact official Trezor support only through trezor.io.

Recovery & Safety

If your Trezor is lost or broken, your seed phrase restores access. Keep seed copies in geographically separated, secure locations for redundancy. Consider multi-signature or a custodian for very large holdings.