Trezor.io/Start® — Get Started with Your Trezor Hardware Wallet
A practical, step-by-step 1,200-word guide to safely initialize your Trezor device, connect to Trezor Suite or web wallets, secure your recovery seed, and follow everyday best practices.
Introduction — why a hardware wallet?
Trezor hardware wallets keep your private keys offline on a dedicated device. That offline storage significantly reduces the risk of remote theft compared to software wallets. This guide focuses on the secure, official steps to get your device running and help you use it daily without exposing your seed or keys to unsafe environments.
Quick note: always download software only from the official domain (trezor.io). Avoid links from search ads or unfamiliar sources.
Step-by-step setup
1. Unbox and inspect
Confirm the packaging and tamper-evident seals (if present) match the vendor’s description. If anything looks altered, contact the vendor before proceeding.
2. Download Trezor Suite (official)
Visit trezor.io/start (type it directly or use a bookmark) and download Trezor Suite, the official desktop application for managing your device. Alternatively, you can use supported web wallets that explicitly list Trezor compatibility.
3. Install and open Trezor Suite
- Install the application for your OS and open it.
- Follow the on-screen prompts. When asked, select Set up a new device if your device is new.
4. Initialize the device
- Connect your Trezor to your computer with a data-capable USB cable and power it on.
- Choose between creating a new wallet or restoring an existing one from a recovery seed.
- Set a strong PIN directly on the device — this protects against local physical access.
- Your device will present a recovery seed (usually 12–24 words depending on model/options). Write these words down exactly and in order on the supplied card or a secure backup method.
- Confirm the seed on the device as instructed to ensure correctness.
5. Add accounts
After initialization, use Trezor Suite to install or enable support for specific coins (if required), and add accounts. Trezor Suite will query public addresses from your device; private keys never leave the device.
6. First receive & send
- To receive, in Trezor Suite choose the account and click Receive. Verify the address on the device screen before sharing it.
- To send, compose the transaction in the Suite, then verify amount and destination on the device when it requests confirmation. Only approve if the on-device details match the intended values.
Security essentials
The security guarantees of a Trezor device come from keeping the seed private and requiring physical confirmation on the device for every signing operation. Follow these core rules:
- Never type or photograph your recovery seed. Avoid digital backups such as screenshots, cloud notes, or sending words to others.
- Keep the seed offline and physically secure. Consider multiple geographic backups in secure locations (safe, safety deposit box).
- Verify everything on the device screen. Always confirm addresses, amounts, and transaction details on the hardware display — not just in the app.
- Do not share your seed. Trezor support or official channels will never ask you for your seed words.
- Keep your host secure. Maintain OS updates, reputable antivirus where applicable, and avoid untrusted browser extensions while transacting.
Advanced topics & options
Passphrase (optional)
A passphrase adds an additional, user-chosen word to your seed to create hidden wallets. It increases security but requires careful management — losing the passphrase means losing access to funds in that hidden wallet.
Firmware updates
Keep your device firmware up to date. Firmware updates patch security issues and add features. Always follow official instructions and ensure you have your recovery seed secured before updating.
Using web wallets vs. Suite
Trezor Suite provides a full-featured, integrated experience. Some users prefer web wallets that support Trezor; if you use web-based apps, ensure they explicitly list Trezor compatibility and are obtained from trusted sources.
Troubleshooting — common issues
- Device not detected: try a different USB cable/port, ensure the cable supports data, and restart Suite or your browser.
- Seed restore problems: verify words are typed exactly and in order; some devices use on-device selection to avoid keyboard input.
- Firmware or app failures: ensure you’re using the official Suite and follow update prompts carefully; reach out to official support if problems persist.
When seeking help, do not share your recovery seed or private keys. Collect device logs if asked by official support for diagnostics, but never reveal seed words.
Frequently asked questions
Can I recover funds if I lose my device?
Yes — with your recovery seed you can restore access on a new Trezor or another compatible BIP39 wallet. The seed is the authoritative backup of your funds.
Do I always need Trezor Suite?
No — Suite is recommended for a full experience, but some advanced users use third-party wallets or command-line tools that explicitly support Trezor. Only use well-known, trusted integrations.
Is Bluetooth safe (if supported)?
Bluetooth (on some models) provides mobile convenience. Evaluate your personal threat model — Bluetooth introduces an additional communication channel; use strong PINs and up-to-date firmware.
Always verify URLs and download only from official Trezor resources.