Trezor.io/Start® — Starting Up Your Device | Trezor®
Welcome to Trezor Setup
Your journey toward secure self-custody starts here. Trezor is a hardware wallet designed to help you store, manage, and protect your cryptocurrencies with the highest level of security. This page will guide you step by step through setting up your Trezor device, installing the necessary software, and understanding the essential principles of keeping your digital assets safe.
Whether you are new to crypto or an experienced user, following the correct setup process is critical. Take your time, read each step carefully, and never rush security decisions.
Why Choose a Hardware Wallet?
Unlike software wallets or exchanges, a hardware wallet keeps your private keys offline at all times. This means your sensitive information is never exposed to the internet, malware, or phishing attacks.
With a Trezor device, you:
- Maintain full control over your crypto assets
- Protect your funds from online threats
- Sign transactions securely on the device itself
- Own your private keys—no third party involved
Security is not about convenience alone; it is about ownership and responsibility.
Before You Begin
Before starting the setup process, make sure you have the following:
- Your new Trezor device (sealed and untampered)
- A computer or mobile device with internet access
- A USB cable or compatible connection
- A private, distraction-free environment
Important: Never set up your Trezor in public or on a shared computer. Anyone who sees your recovery information could gain access to your funds.
Step 1: Connect Your Trezor
Plug your Trezor device into your computer or mobile device using the provided cable. Once connected, your device will power on and display instructions on the screen.
You will be prompted to visit the official Trezor setup interface. Always ensure you are on the correct domain and avoid links from emails, ads, or social media.
Step 2: Install Trezor Software
To manage your wallet, you will need to install the official Trezor software (commonly known as Trezor Suite). This application allows you to:
- View account balances
- Send and receive crypto
- Manage multiple assets
- Update firmware securely
During installation, your device may ask you to confirm actions on its screen. This ensures that no action is taken without your physical approval.
Step 3: Update Firmware
If your Trezor is new, it may not have firmware installed, or it may require an update. Firmware is the operating system of your hardware wallet.
Updating firmware:
- Ensures the latest security protections
- Adds support for new features and assets
- Fixes known vulnerabilities
Only install firmware through the official setup interface. Never download firmware files from third-party sources.
Step 4: Create a New Wallet
Once your device is ready, you will be asked whether you want to create a new wallet or recover an existing one.
For new users, choose Create New Wallet.
Your Trezor will generate a unique recovery seed—a list of words that represents your wallet’s private keys. These words are created offline and never leave the device.
Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Seed
This is the most important step of the entire setup.
Your recovery seed:
- Is the only way to recover your wallet if the device is lost, damaged, or stolen
- Gives full access to your funds
- Must be kept private and offline
Write the words down in the exact order shown on your device. Do not:
- Take photos
- Store digitally
- Upload to cloud storage
- Share with anyone
Anyone who has your recovery seed owns your crypto.
Step 6: Confirm the Recovery Seed
To ensure accuracy, your Trezor will ask you to confirm selected words from your recovery seed. This step verifies that you have written everything down correctly.
If you make a mistake, start again. Accuracy matters more than speed.
Step 7: Set a PIN Code
Next, you will create a PIN code to protect your device from unauthorized physical access.
Your PIN:
- Is entered directly on the device
- Prevents access if the device is stolen
- Can be changed later
Choose a PIN that is difficult to guess but easy for you to remember. Avoid obvious patterns or repeated numbers.
Step 8: Add and Manage Accounts
Once setup is complete, you can begin adding cryptocurrency accounts. Trezor supports a wide range of digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many others.
Within the software, you can:
- Generate receiving addresses
- Send transactions securely
- Track balances and history
- Manage multiple accounts per asset
All transactions must be confirmed on the device screen, ensuring full transparency.
Security Best Practices
To stay safe, always follow these principles:
- Never share your recovery seed
- Always verify addresses on your device screen
- Keep your firmware and software updated
- Beware of phishing websites and fake support messages
- Use only official Trezor resources
Trezor will never ask for your recovery seed or PIN.
Need Help?
If you encounter issues during setup, consult the official knowledge base or documentation. Common topics include:
- Recovering a wallet
- Resetting a device
- Understanding transaction fees
- Advanced security features
Education is a key part of crypto security. The more you understand, the safer your assets will be.