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

Welcome — you’re about to start your Trezor hardware wallet. This page guides you through the first-time setup: unboxing, connecting, initializing, and keeping your recovery seed safe. Follow these steps carefully and you’ll be ready to manage your cryptocurrencies securely in minutes.

Before you begin

Quick checklist: Keep your device box and packaging until setup is complete. Use a clean, private surface. Have a pen and the included recovery card (or a blank notebook) ready. Do not install random software — always use official software from Trezor.io.

1. Unbox and inspect

Check the box seal: Ensure tamper-evident seals are intact. If anything looks damaged, stop and contact support.
Contents: Your package should include the Trezor device, a USB cable, recovery card(s), and quick-start materials.
Handle with care: The device is small—avoid bending or dropping it. Keep magnets and extreme temperatures away.

2. Connect your device

Use the supplied USB cable to connect the Trezor to your computer. Some models support USB-C or USB-A; use the cable that came with your device or an approved equivalent. When connected, your device screen will light up and display a greeting.

Security note: Only connect your device to your own trusted computer. Do not use public or shared machines for initial setup.

3. Visit Trezor.io/Start

Open your browser and go to trezor.io/start. This page gives the official companion app and the latest firmware. Always confirm the site address and the browser’s security indicators (lock icon) before proceeding.

4. Install the software

Follow on-screen prompts to install the Trezor Suite (desktop) or use the web-based Suite. The Suite will detect your device and guide you through firmware installation if required. Firmware is cryptographically signed — allow updates only from official prompts.

5. Initialize your device

The initialization process creates your private keys and a recovery seed. Read each prompt on the hardware display and the computer carefully.

Create a new wallet: Choose “Create new device” when asked. This generates a unique seed on the device itself.
Write down the recovery seed: Your device will display a series of 12, 18, or 24 words. Write each word in order on the recovery card—do not photograph, copy digitally, or store them online.
Confirm the seed: The device may ask you to confirm random words to ensure you recorded them correctly.
Set a PIN: Choose a PIN code to protect the device. Use a PIN you can remember but that’s not easily guessed. The device will show a randomized keypad — enter the PIN using the device screen for better protection against keyloggers.

6. Backups and recovery

Your recovery seed is the single most important piece of information. It’s the backup of your private keys. If your device is lost, damaged, or stolen, the seed lets you recover funds on a new compatible wallet — so protect it.

Store the seed in at least two geographically separate, secure locations (for example, a safe or safety deposit box).
Do not store your seed digitally (no photos, screenshots, cloud storage, or email).
Consider using metal backup plates for fire and water resistance.

7. Add accounts and receive crypto

Once initialized, open Trezor Suite and add cryptocurrency accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Each account will provide receive addresses. Always verify the address on the device screen before sending funds — never trust a copy pasted only on your computer.

8. Regular safety habits

Keep these habits to maintain security:

Only approve transactions you initiated. Read amounts and recipient addresses on the device screen.
Regularly update firmware and Suite when official updates are available; updates can include security improvements.
Enable passphrase protection if you need an extra layer. Note: a passphrase is effectively a 25th word — losing it means losing access to that specific hidden wallet.
Beware phishing: double-check emails and web pages claiming to be Trezor. Trezor will never ask for your recovery seed or full PIN via email or chat.

Troubleshooting quick tips

If the device is not recognized, try a different USB port or cable. For persistent issues, reboot your computer and ensure your browser extensions aren’t blocking web USB access. If you suspect tampering or a compromised device, stop and contact official support immediately.

Final checklist

Device screen and firmware verified.
Recovery seed written down and stored securely.
PIN set and tested.
Trezor Suite installed and accounts added.
At least one small test transaction completed successfully.

When you’re ready, send a small test amount first. Confirm the transaction on your device screen and check that the amount and recipient are correct. After that — you’re all set to manage larger amounts more confidently.