Trézor.io/Start® | Setting Up and Securing Your Trézor® Device
Purpose: This guide will walk you through the complete process of setting up your new Trézor® hardware wallet, creating backups, updating firmware, and ensuring long-term digital asset safety. Every step follows the official Trezor.io/Start recommendations.
1. Welcome to Your New Trezor®
What makes Trezor special?
Trézor® hardware wallets are designed for maximum cryptocurrency security. Your private keys never leave the device, and all transactions must be confirmed on the device screen itself. This “trusted display” ensures attackers cannot redirect your funds without your physical confirmation.
Checklist before setup
- Unopened and untampered packaging.
- Original USB cable or genuine Trezor-approved cable.
- Access to https://trezor.io/start (official start portal).
- Paper or metal backup card and a secure pen for writing recovery words.
Always verify that you are on the official website with HTTPS and the correct domain: trezor.io.
2. Starting the Device for the First Time
Step 1 — Connect to Trezor Suite
Visit trezor.io/start and download the Trezor Suite application. Once installed, connect your device via USB. Suite will automatically recognize your device and prompt you to begin setup.
Step 2 — Firmware installation
If your Trezor doesn’t have firmware pre-installed, Suite will ask to install it. This ensures that your device is running authentic software directly from Trezor. Wait until the installation completes, then follow the on-screen verification process.
Firmware is digitally signed by Trezor. If your device ever shows an “invalid signature” message, stop immediately and contact
official support.
3. Creating Your Recovery Backup
Step 3 — Backup generation
During setup, the Trezor device will generate a unique recovery seed of 12, 18, or 24 words. Write these words down exactly as shown on your device screen. Never take a photo or store them digitally.
Protecting your seed
- Store your written seed in a secure physical location (safe, lockbox, or offsite).
- Consider using Trezor Keep Metal for permanent storage against fire or water damage.
- Never share or type your seed on any computer or smartphone.
Anyone with your seed can restore and steal your funds. Trezor will never ask for your recovery words in email, chat, or phone.
4. Setting Your Security Options
Device PIN
After backup, you’ll create a PIN. This 4-9 digit number prevents unauthorized physical access. You’ll use it every time you connect your device.
Optional Passphrase
A passphrase adds an extra layer of encryption to your wallet, acting as a “25th word.” Only advanced users should use it, as forgetting it means permanent loss of access.
Combine a strong PIN and a unique passphrase only if you understand how to manage both safely.
5. Updating Firmware and Suite
Keeping your firmware and Trezor Suite updated ensures optimal protection and access to the latest features.
To update:
- Open Trezor Suite.
- Connect your device.
- If prompted, click Update Firmware and follow on-screen steps.
- Verify firmware version after restart.
Additional resources:
Read the detailed update guide on the official site: Firmware update instructions.
Always keep a backup written down before any update. In case of power loss or disconnection, you can safely recover using your recovery seed.
6. Using Your Wallet Safely
Receiving crypto
Generate receiving addresses in Trezor Suite. Always double-check that the address displayed on your computer matches the one on your Trezor screen before sharing it.
Sending crypto
- Confirm every outgoing transaction on the device screen.
- Review amount, destination address, and network fee carefully.
- Reject any transaction you did not initiate.
Privacy best practices
Keep your wallet software and operating system updated. Avoid browser extensions or “airdrops” that request wallet connection. Trezor does not require Chrome extensions or mobile apps outside of Suite.
7. Recovery Process Explained
Restoring a lost or replaced Trezor
In Trezor Suite, choose Recover wallet and carefully enter each recovery word. Your device will recreate all accounts associated with your seed phrase.
Verification steps
- Make sure recovery happens offline or on a trusted device.
- Use Trezor’s “on-device entry” method to keep words hidden from the computer.
Never enter recovery words on any website. The process must be done only through your hardware device screen.
8. Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Common issues
- Device not recognized: Try another USB cable or port; reinstall Suite.
- Firmware loop: Use bootloader mode and follow recovery steps from Trezor documentation.
- Forgotten PIN: Wipe the device and restore using your recovery seed.
Support resources
Access the official Trezor knowledge base and contact support at trezor.io/support.
9. Best Practices for Long-Term Security
Physical safety
- Keep your device out of sight and preferably in a secure drawer or safe.
- Consider labeling generically (avoid “Trezor” tags visible to others).
Backup duplication
Store duplicate backups in two geographically separate secure places. Test your recovery process once a year with a spare device to ensure backups work.
Keep learning
Trezor frequently updates guides and introduces new features. Regularly visit trezor.io/guides for new tutorials.