Trezor.io/start — Fast, Secure Setup for Your Trezor Hardware Wallet

A concise 800‑word guide to get your Trezor up and protecting your crypto — from unboxing to advanced security practices.

What to expect

This page walks you through the Trezor.io/start flow with clear, practical steps. You’ll learn how to initialize your device, generate and protect your recovery seed, connect accounts to wallets, update firmware safely, and use privacy-minded features. The instructions are intentionally direct — no unnecessary jargon — so you can finish setup with confidence.

Before you begin

Essentials: a charged computer or compatible mobile device, the USB cable that came with your Trezor, a clean surface, and patience. Never share your seed phrase or type it online.

Keep your boxed device sealed until you’re ready to start.
Use official Trezor.io/start and avoid links from unknown messages or social media.
Allocate 10–20 minutes for a calm, interruption-free setup.

Step-by-step setup

1. Open Trezor.io/start

Go to the official start page and follow the on-screen connection prompt. The Trezor will show a model name and a short animation when it’s recognized — that’s your cue to proceed.

2. Initialize securely

Choose between creating a new device or recovering an existing seed. If you’re new, select Create a new wallet. Let the device generate the recovery seed — never use seeds generated on other devices or apps.

3. Record your recovery seed

Write the recovery words on the included card or a dedicated metal backup. Keep multiple offline copies in separate secure locations. Treat the seed like the key to a safe: physical, silent, and guarded.

4. Set a PIN and passphrase

Pick a PIN that’s easy for you to recall but hard for others to guess. For extra security, enable a passphrase — this creates hidden wallets and adds a powerful layer of protection if someone obtains your seed.

Connecting wallets & managing assets

After initialization you can use the Trezor Suite or compatible third‑party wallets. Connect the device, allow the host to access public addresses, and verify every receiving address on the device screen before sending funds. This on‑device verification prevents host software from showing tampered addresses.

Use Trezor Suite for an integrated experience: portfolio, transaction history, and firmware updates in one app.
For advanced DeFi interactions, prefer hardware‑compatible wallets and verify contract data using your device when possible.

Firmware and updates

Always update firmware via the official Trezor channels. Firmware updates contain security patches and new features; confirm signatures and prompts, and never install firmware from unknown sources. If an update fails, follow the recovery instructions on Trezor.io — don’t try hacks or unofficial recovery tools.

Advanced tips & privacy

To minimize linkability and exposure, create fresh receiving addresses for each incoming payment and consider coin‑control features in compatible wallets. Use a separate, clean computer for sensitive operations when possible. If you rely on a passphrase, record its hint in a way only you understand — do not store the passphrase electronically.

Troubleshooting & support

If your device isn’t recognized, try a different cable or USB port and ensure the host app has necessary permissions. For everything else, consult the official support documentation and community forums on Trezor.io — and remember, Trezor staff will never ask for your recovery seed.