Trezor

Trezor.io/Start — Official setup guide

Get Started with Trezor.io/Start

Trezor.io/Start is the official entry point for initializing your Trezor hardware wallet. Whether you're opening your device for the first time or restoring an existing wallet, this guide provides practical, security-first steps: verify your device, install Trezor Suite, create and protect your recovery seed, and perform your first transactions with confidence.

Open Trezor.io/Start Learn more
1
Verify your device
Check packaging and serial numbers; buy only from official channels to avoid tampered hardware.
2
Visit Trezor.io/Start
Download Trezor Suite or use the web app — avoid third-party links or emails.
3
Initialize & backup
Create a recovery seed on-device and store it offline; consider metal backups for durability.

Before you begin — purchase & checks

Start by ensuring you have a genuine Trezor device. Buy from the official Trezor shop or authorized resellers. When the package arrives, inspect seals and contents. Trezor hardware is shipped sealed and includes a recovery card; if anything appears tampered with, contact support immediately. Avoid buying used devices — they may have been compromised.

Step 1 — Visit Trezor.io/Start & download

Open your browser and navigate to Trezor.io/Start. This page provides the latest versions of Trezor Suite (desktop) and links to the web app. Download the installer for your operating system, or use the web suite for quick setup. Avoid following links from emails or social platforms — always type the URL manually to reduce phishing risk.

Step 2 — Install Trezor Suite

Install the desktop app or open the web version of Trezor Suite. The Suite is the recommended interface for initialization, firmware management, and advanced settings. When you open Suite for the first time it will guide you through connecting your device and choosing whether to create a new wallet or restore an existing one.

Step 3 — Initialize your Trezor

Connect your Trezor using the supplied USB cable. The device will power on and show prompts — follow the on-device instructions rather than relying solely on the host application. For a new device, choose "Create new wallet". The device will generate a recovery seed (12, 18, or 24 words depending on the model and settings). Write the words in order on the recovery card provided. Keep this card offline and store it securely.

Recovery seed best practices

The recovery seed is the master key to your funds. Treat it like cash or sensitive legal documents. Write it by hand — do not take photos or save it in cloud storage. Create multiple physical backups and store them in geographically separated secure locations. Consider metal backup devices for protection against fire and water. If you enable a passphrase (an optional additional word), understand that it functions like a 25th word: losing it means losing access to the hidden wallet.

Step 4 — Set a PIN & passphrase

Choose a PIN for your device — this prevents casual use if the device is lost or stolen. The on-device PIN protects against unauthorized access; do not write the PIN on your recovery card. Trezor supports an optional passphrase for additional account separation and plausible deniability. Use passphrases only if you understand the trade-offs and have a secure plan to record and protect them.

Step 5 — Firmware & Suite updates

After initialization, check for firmware updates through Trezor Suite. Firmware updates often include important security fixes and coin compatibility updates. Apply updates only through the official Suite prompts. Do not install firmware obtained from unofficial sources.

Step 6 — Add accounts & receive

In Trezor Suite, add the cryptocurrency accounts you plan to use. To receive funds, copy the receive address shown in Suite and always verify that the same address appears on your device screen before sharing. Start with a small test transfer to confirm the flow before moving larger amounts.

Security: model & recommendations

Trezor's security model keeps private keys on the device and forces approval of every signature via the device screen and buttons. This design keeps the attack surface small. Key recommendations:

  • Never enter your recovery seed into a website or store it digitally.
  • Always verify URLs — Trezor.io/Start is the official onboarding page.
  • Use the passphrase feature cautiously and understand recovery implications.
  • Keep multiple offline backups of your recovery seed in secure places.
  • Regularly update firmware and the Suite to benefit from security improvements.

Using DApps & integrations

Trezor integrates with various wallets and DApps via bridges or WebUSB. When connecting to a DApp, verify the domain and carefully review the transaction details on your device before approving. Limit approvals to what is necessary, and revoke permissions when they're no longer required. For DeFi interactions, prefer audited contracts and known interfaces to limit exposure to malicious contract calls.

Frequently asked questions

Can I restore on another device?
Yes. You can restore your wallet on any compatible hardware wallet using your recovery seed. Keep the seed private — anyone with it can access your funds.
What if my device is tampered with?
Stop and contact Trezor support immediately. Do not enter your recovery seed into any device until supported guidance is provided.
Is Trezor Suite required?
Trezor Suite is recommended for the most secure and feature-complete experience, including firmware updates and guided workflows, but web integrations exist for specific tasks.

Troubleshooting tips

  • If the device is not detected: try another cable/port and ensure the device is unlocked; check browser permissions for WebUSB if using the web suite.
  • If firmware update fails: follow official recovery instructions in Suite and contact support if needed.
  • If balances don’t display: add the relevant account in Suite and allow time for indexing; verify transactions via block explorers.