Trezor.io/Start — Starting Up Your Device

Introduction — why proper setup matters

A hardware wallet protects your cryptocurrency by storing private keys offline in a purpose-built device. Getting your Trezor device started correctly is the most important step you will take to secure your digital assets. The official setup flow at Trezor.io/Start guides you through authenticated downloads, device initialization, backup of your recovery seed, and firmware updates. Follow each step carefully — small mistakes during setup are a leading cause of lost funds or security incidents.

Safety first: only download software from the official site and never enter your recovery seed into a website, email, or phone. The seed is your master key — keep it offline and private.

Unboxing and preliminary checks

When your Trezor arrives, inspect the packaging before powering on the device. Check for tamper seals, obvious damage, or signs the box has been opened. The package should include the Trezor device (Model One or Model T), a USB cable, recovery seed cards, and quick-start documentation.

• If the device appears used, tampered with, or pre-initialized, contact the seller or the official vendor immediately and do not proceed with setup.
• Prefer purchasing directly from the manufacturer or an authorized reseller to minimize supply-chain risks.

Never buy a used hardware wallet unless you fully understand how to securely wipe and reinitialize it and you are certain the recovery seed provided is safe (which is rarely the case).

Step 1 — Download the official software

Open a trustworthy browser and manually type trezor.io/start or use an official bookmark. Avoid clicking links from unsolicited messages. The start page will detect your OS and present the appropriate downloads: Trezor Suite (desktop), Trezor Bridge, and guidance for web-based flows if applicable.

1. Choose the recommended installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
2. Verify checksums or digital signatures if the vendor publishes them; this step defends against tampered downloads.
3. Install Trezor Suite or the required helper according to the platform instructions.

Using the official Suite is recommended for most users because it bundles connectivity, firmware management, and a consistent user interface. The web flow can be convenient but ensure you understand the required browser permissions and bridge helpers.

Step 2 — Connecting your Trezor

Connect your Trezor device to your computer using the supplied cable. For Model T, the device includes a touchscreen; Model One uses buttons for navigation. When connected, open Trezor Suite or the web start flow — the software will detect the device and offer setup options.

For the initial setup you will typically choose between:

• Create a new wallet — generate a fresh recovery seed on the device (recommended for new users).
• Restore a wallet — enter an existing recovery seed to restore access to previously created accounts.

If restoring, ensure your recovery seed is authentic and stored securely. Only restore seeds that you personally generated or obtained from a trusted backup.

Step 3 — Creating a PIN

The setup flow will prompt you to choose a PIN. The PIN prevents unauthorized local access to the device if it’s stolen. Choose a PIN that is memorable to you but not easily guessed. The device will block repeated failed attempts — after a number of failed entries it may wipe itself depending on the model and settings.

• Avoid trivial sequences (e.g., 1234) or easily discoverable numbers related to you.
• Do not write the PIN on the recovery card; keep it separate and memorized if possible.

Step 4 — Generating and backing up your recovery seed

The device will generate a recovery seed (commonly 12 or 24 words). This seed is the cryptographic master key for all accounts derived from the device. Write the words down in the exact order on the supplied recovery card or use a durable metal backup solution for long-term storage.

1. Write each word clearly and in order. Do not abbreviate or alter words.
2. Store the backup in a secure, offline location — a safe, safety deposit box, or another physically secure place.
3. Consider storing multiple copies in separate secure locations if your holdings are significant, but be mindful of increasing exposure.

Never take a photo of your seed, type it into a computer, or store it in cloud storage. Treat the seed like cash or a legal title: anyone who has it can control your funds.

Step 5 — Confirming your seed and completing setup

During setup the device will ask you to confirm random words from the seed to ensure you recorded it correctly. Complete the confirmation prompts. Once confirmed, the device may prompt for firmware checks and finish the initialization.

If you make an error while recording the seed, reset the device and generate a new seed. It is safer to start over than to risk an incorrect backup.

Step 6 — Firmware updates

After initialization, the Trezor Suite may indicate that firmware is available. Firmware updates improve security and add features. The Suite verifies firmware signatures before applying updates — follow the guided process carefully.

• Ensure your recovery seed is accessible before updating (you should not need it, but having it available reduces stress in edge cases).
• Do not disconnect or power off the device during a firmware update.
• Use official update prompts from the Suite; do not install firmware obtained from random websites.

Step 7 — Installing coin apps and adding accounts

Trezor Suite allows you to install blockchain-specific apps (especially for Model T and other advanced devices) and add accounts for different cryptocurrencies. Through the Manager or Accounts sections you can:

• Install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported coins.
• Add accounts and discover existing balances derived from your seed.
• Label accounts to keep your portfolio organized.

Installing or removing apps does not affect your funds; accounts are determined by your recovery seed, not the presence of an app. The apps simply enable the device to speak the protocol for a given chain.

Verifying addresses and transactions

Best practice: always verify addresses and transaction details on the device screen, not just on your computer. Malware or clipboard-swapping tools can alter copied addresses; the device display is the final source of truth. When receiving funds, verify the address shown on the device before sharing it. When sending funds, confirm the recipient, amount, and fees on-device before approving.

Optional: passphrase protection and hidden wallets

For advanced users, Trezor devices support an optional passphrase feature. A passphrase acts as a 25th word, deriving a distinct hidden wallet. This can increase privacy and plausible deniability but requires careful management: losing the passphrase means losing access to the hidden wallet. Only enable passphrases if you fully understand how they work.

Privacy and networking options

Trezor Suite and related tools may allow privacy controls such as connecting through Tor, or using your own full node for blockchain queries. If privacy matters to you, consider running your own node so your wallet does not leak queries to public block explorers. These options are optional and for users with higher privacy requirements.

Troubleshooting common setup issues

Never share your recovery seed with support personnel. Official support will never ask for it.

Maintenance and long-term care

Periodically check for firmware and Suite updates. Keep your recovery seed secure and consider moving it to a more durable form over time (metal backup plates, etc.). Review account activity occasionally and maintain basic opsec: avoid downloading unknown software on machines used for wallet management and consider using a dedicated, well-maintained computer for significant transfers.

Testing and first transactions

Before moving substantial funds, practice with small test transactions. Send a small amount to a new address and confirm receipt. Then send a small amount out to ensure your send flow and fee preferences behave as expected. Testing reduces the risk of costly mistakes.

Recovering on a new device

If your device is lost or damaged, you can restore your wallet on a new Trezor or compatible hardware by choosing the restore option and entering your recovery seed in the device interface. After restoring, reinstall apps and re-add accounts via Trezor Suite. Because funds are on the blockchain, not the device, restoration returns access to your assets.

Final safety checklist

• Download only from trezor.io/start and verify downloads when possible.
• Inspect packaging for tampering before setup.
• Record your recovery seed offline and store it securely.
• Verify addresses and transaction details on-device each time.
• Keep firmware and Suite updated via official channels.
• Test with small transactions before transferring large amounts.