Trezor.io/Start | Official Setup Guide for Trezor Wallet
Welcome to the official setup guide for the Trezor hardware wallet. This page walks you through the essential steps to get your Trezor device ready for secure cryptocurrency storage: verifying your device, installing the official software, creating and safeguarding your recovery seed, and performing your first transaction. Follow each step carefully — hardware wallets provide the best protection for private keys when used correctly.
What is a Trezor hardware wallet?
A Trezor hardware wallet is a small, dedicated device that stores your cryptocurrency private keys offline. By keeping keys on a separate device, Trezor prevents remote attackers and malware on your computer or phone from accessing your funds. Trezor supports numerous cryptocurrencies and integrates with Trezor Suite and many third-party wallets for sending, receiving, and managing assets.
Before you begin
- Unbox only the official device you purchased from an authorized retailer.
- Have a clean computer with an up-to-date browser and a USB port (or compatible cable/adapter).
- Keep pen and paper ready for writing down your recovery seed — do not store the seed digitally.
- Do not connect your device to public or untrusted computers for the initial setup if avoidable.
Step-by-step setup (high level)
- Visit the official start page: Open trezor.io/start. This page guides you to the correct, up-to-date software for your model.
- Install Trezor Suite: Download and install Trezor Suite (desktop or use the web suite if instructed). The Suite is the official app used to initialize the device, manage firmware updates, and handle transactions.
- Connect the device: Use the supplied USB cable to connect your Trezor. Follow on-screen prompts in the Suite to identify your model and begin initialization.
- Verify firmware: If prompted, update or install the latest firmware. Only approve firmware updates shown in the official Suite; a firmware change may be required before use.
- Create a new wallet: Choose “Create new” to generate a new wallet. The device will create a recovery seed (typically 12, 18, or 24 words depending on model/settings).
- Write down the recovery seed: Carefully write each word exactly as shown onto the provided recovery card or a secure medium. Store this offline in a safe place; anyone with these words can restore your wallet and access funds.
- Confirm seed on device: The Suite will ask you to confirm some words to ensure the seed was noted correctly. Complete the verification steps.
- Set a device PIN: Choose a PIN on the Trezor device. This PIN protects access to the device if it is lost or stolen. Never share your PIN.
- Optional passphrase: Advanced users can enable a passphrase for an additional layer of protection. This acts as a 25th word and creates separate hidden wallets — only enable if you understand how to manage it securely.
- Receive and test: Send a small test amount to a receiving address displayed by the Suite to confirm everything works correctly before transferring larger sums.
Security best practices
- Only use the official Trezor Suite or verified integrations; avoid untrusted third-party apps for critical operations.
- Never share your recovery seed or enter it into any website, app, or online form. The seed belongs offline only.
- Store your recovery seed in multiple physically secure locations if desired (e.g., safe deposit box, home safe). Consider metal backup solutions for fire/water resistance.
- Keep firmware and Trezor Suite up to date to receive security improvements.
- Be cautious of phishing: always confirm the domain is trezor.io and bookmarks the official start page to avoid typosquatting sites.
Troubleshooting tips
If your device does not respond, try a different USB cable or port and ensure your browser allows the Suite to access connected devices. If the Suite reports a mismatch or invalid firmware signature, disconnect and consult official support rather than proceeding. For lost seeds or mistaken initializations, contact official Trezor support for next steps — remember that without the recovery seed, funds cannot be recovered.
Official links
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need internet access to set up Trezor?
You need internet access to download Trezor Suite and firmware updates, but the recovery seed generation and key storage happen on the device offline.
2. What if I lose my Trezor device?
If you have your recovery seed, you can restore your wallet to a new Trezor or compatible hardware/software wallet. If you lose both device and seed, funds cannot be recovered.
3. Should I store my recovery seed digitally?
No. Storing the seed digitally (photos, text files, cloud storage) risks theft. Use offline, physical storage methods.
4. Can Trezor be used with mobile devices?
Yes. Trezor Suite and certain third-party mobile wallets provide mobile integrations; follow official guidance on compatible apps and connection methods.
Conclusion
Setting up your Trezor wallet correctly is the single most important step toward taking full control of your cryptocurrencies. Follow the official start guide at trezor.io/start, keep your recovery seed secure, enable protective features like PIN and passphrase as appropriate, and always verify you are using official Trezor resources for downloads and support.