Welcome to Trezor.io/start™
Congratulations on your decision to secure your cryptocurrencies with a Trezor hardware wallet. Trezor devices are globally renowned for providing the highest level of security through offline storage of private keys. This official guide will take you step-by-step through the setup process, from unboxing your device to making your first transaction safely.
Whether you’re new to crypto or an experienced user, this comprehensive setup guide aims to empower you with knowledge and best practices, helping you harness the full potential of your Trezor wallet.
“Your private keys are your coins. Keeping them safe is essential, and Trezor makes that simple.”
Unboxing Your Trezor Device
Your journey begins the moment you open your Trezor package. Authenticity and integrity are paramount, so it’s essential to verify your device before use.
What’s in the Box?
- Trezor hardware wallet: The device itself, either a Model One or Model T.
- USB Cable: To connect the device to your computer or phone.
- Recovery seed card: A paper card to write down your recovery seed phrase.
- Getting Started Guide: Basic printed instructions and support links.
- Security stickers: Tamper-evident seals to ensure device integrity.
Checking for Authenticity
Before connecting your Trezor for the first time, inspect the packaging and device carefully:
- Ensure the tamper-evident stickers are intact and unbroken.
- Check the holographic seal on the box.
- Verify the device’s fingerprint by comparing it with details on the official Trezor verification page.
If anything appears suspicious or tampered with, do not use the device and contact Trezor Support immediately.
Step-by-Step Setup Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to set up your Trezor wallet for the first time.
Step 1: Connect Your Trezor
Use the provided USB cable to connect your Trezor to your computer or compatible smartphone. Trezor Model T supports USB-C and can also connect via USB-A adapters.
Open your browser and visit https://trezor.io/start. This website will detect your device and prompt you to begin the setup.
Step 2: Install Trezor Bridge
Trezor Bridge is software that enables communication between your device and the web interface. If not already installed, the website will guide you to download and install it for your operating system.
Note: After installing, you might need to refresh the page or reconnect your device.
Step 3: Initialize Your Device
Once connected, you’ll have two options:
- Create a new wallet – Generate a new recovery seed and wallet.
- Recover wallet – Restore an existing wallet using a previously saved recovery seed.
If you’re new, select Create a new wallet.
Step 4: Set a PIN Code
The device will prompt you to create a PIN code. This adds an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access.
Use the on-device touchscreen (Model T) or the button combination (Model One) to enter your PIN. Remember to choose a code that is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess.
Step 5: Write Down Your Recovery Seed
This is the most critical step. Your recovery seed is a list of 12 to 24 words that serve as the master key to your wallet. It allows you to restore your funds if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
The device will display each word one by one. Write them down carefully on the recovery seed card provided — do not store this digitally or online.
Important: Never share your recovery seed with anyone. Anyone with this phrase can control your funds.
Step 6: Confirm Your Recovery Seed
To ensure you wrote your recovery seed correctly, the device will ask you to confirm some of the words by selecting them from a list.
Step 7: Install Firmware Updates
If a firmware update is available, the Trezor website will prompt you to install it. Firmware updates improve security and add new features. Always keep your device firmware up to date.
Step 8: Access Your Wallet Dashboard
After completing setup, you will be directed to your wallet dashboard on the web interface or Trezor Suite app, where you can view balances, send and receive cryptocurrency, and manage your portfolio.
For maximum security, always disconnect your Trezor when not in use and avoid plugging it into unknown or public computers.
Security Best Practices
Using a Trezor hardware wallet greatly increases your crypto security, but it’s important to follow these guidelines to stay safe:
- Keep your recovery seed offline: Store your recovery seed card in a secure, private location. Consider a fireproof safe or safety deposit box.
- Never share your seed or PIN: Legitimate services will never ask for your seed phrase.
- Beware of phishing: Always access your wallet via official Trezor websites or the official Trezor Suite app. Avoid clicking links from suspicious emails or messages.
- Regularly update firmware: Firmware updates include security patches and new features; never skip them.
- Use passphrase protection: Trezor allows an additional passphrase layer for extra security — think of it as a 25th seed word.
- Secure your computer: Ensure your computer is free from malware and viruses to avoid keyloggers and hacks.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): For exchanges and accounts linked to your wallet, add 2FA to reduce hacking risks.
“Security is a continuous process. Stay vigilant and regularly review your practices.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What cryptocurrencies does Trezor support?
Trezor supports over 1,600 coins and tokens, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Cardano (ADA), and many ERC-20 tokens. You can check the full list on trezor.io/coins.
2. Can I use Trezor on my smartphone?
Yes! Trezor Model T supports USB-C connections with compatible Android devices. You can also use Trezor Suite Mobile, available for iOS and Android, to manage your wallet on the go.
3. What happens if I lose my Trezor device?
If you lose your device, you can restore your wallet and funds on a new Trezor or compatible wallet using your recovery seed phrase. This is why backing up and securing your recovery seed is critical.
4. Is Trezor open-source?
Yes, Trezor's hardware and software are open source, allowing the community to review and audit the code, enhancing trust and security.
5. How do I know if a firmware update is legitimate?
Firmware updates come only through official channels at trezor.io/start. The device verifies cryptographic signatures before installation, ensuring authenticity.
6. Can I use multiple cryptocurrencies in one wallet?
Absolutely. Trezor wallets support multiple accounts and cryptocurrencies simultaneously, letting you manage a diversified portfolio from one interface.
7. What is the Trezor Passphrase?
The passphrase is an optional security feature that acts as a 25th word to your recovery seed, creating a hidden wallet. This adds an extra layer of privacy and security.
8. Does Trezor support staking?
Yes, Trezor supports staking for some cryptocurrencies like Tezos (XTZ), allowing you to earn rewards securely.