Trezor — Get Started with Your Trezor Device

Welcome! This page walks you step‑by‑step through the recommended, secure process for setting up your Trezor hardware wallet. Follow these steps closely to keep your cryptocurrencies safe.

Before you begin

Make sure you have:

  • Your sealed Trezor device (Model One or Model T).
  • A computer with a USB port (or a phone with OTG support) and internet connection.
  • A private, distraction‑free area to write down your recovery seed on the provided card (don’t use digital notes).

Step 1 — Unbox & inspect

Check the packaging seals and inspect the device for any signs of tampering. If anything looks suspicious, contact support and do not use the device.

Tip: Trezor devices ship with tamper‑evident packaging. Always purchase from an official retailer or directly from Trezor to avoid counterfeit devices.

Step 2 — Connect your Trezor

  1. Plug the Trezor into your computer using the supplied USB cable. Model T uses USB‑C, Model One uses micro‑USB.
  2. Open your browser and go to trezor.io/start (this page) or to Trezor Suite if you prefer the desktop app.
  3. Follow the on‑screen prompts — the website/app will detect the device and guide you through updates and initialization.

Step 3 — Install latest firmware

New devices may need a firmware update before first use. The official setup flow will check for this and install it for you.

Important: Only install firmware that is signed by SatoshiLabs (the Trezor team). The official setup flow obtains the signed firmware automatically — do not install firmware from unknown sources.

Step 4 — Create a PIN

You’ll be prompted to create a PIN on the device. The PIN protects the device locally and adds an extra layer of safety if your hardware is lost or stolen.

  • Choose a PIN length you can remember but that’s not easily guessable.
  • Don’t store the PIN on an internet‑connected device.

Step 5 — Write down your recovery seed (never digitize)

The device will generate a recovery seed (12, 18, or 24 words) — this is the single most important item for recovering your funds if your device is lost or damaged.

  1. Write each word carefully on the supplied recovery card or another secure paper backup (never on a computer or cloud note).
  2. Store multiple copies in separate secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box, home safe).
  3. Do not share your recovery seed with anyone or enter it into any website or app except the official Trezor recovery flow when restoring.
Security rule: If anyone asks for your seed — it’s a scam. Never enter it into a computer unless you are in the official & offline recovery process.

Step 6 — Set an optional passphrase (advanced)

A passphrase is like a 25th word that augments your seed with an extra secret. Use it only if you understand the tradeoffs:

  • It provides plausible deniability and additional protection.
  • If you forget the passphrase, funds tied to that passphrase cannot be recovered.
  • Do not store your passphrase digitally unless it’s encrypted and offline.

Step 7 — Install Trezor Suite or use web wallet

Trezor Suite (desktop app) or the official web interface lets you manage accounts, send/receive coins, and interact with dApps. Always use the official Trezor Suite from trezor.io or the installed app’s updater.

Step 8 — Receive and verify test transaction

  1. Create a receiving address in Trezor Suite.
  2. Send a small test amount from another wallet to that address.
  3. Verify the address on the Trezor device display — the device screen is the only trusted place to confirm addresses.

Security best practices

  • Keep your recovery seed offline and split copies across secure locations.
  • Never plug your device into unknown public charging ports.
  • Always confirm transaction details on the device screen before approving.
  • Enable firmware and software updates promptly using official channels.

Troubleshooting

If your device isn’t recognized, try these quick steps:

  • Try a different USB cable or port.
  • Restart your computer and reopen Trezor Suite or the website.
  • Temporarily disable browser extensions that may interfere with USB access.
  • If needed, visit trezor.io/support for device‑specific guidance.

FAQ

Can I recover my wallet on a different Trezor or software?
Yes. Your recovery seed can restore your wallet on any compatible hardware wallet or software wallet that supports BIP39/standard seeds. Use only trusted software.
What happens if I lose my device?
If your recovery seed is safe, you can restore funds to a new device. If you used an additional passphrase and forgot it, those funds may be inaccessible.
Should I ever type my recovery seed into a computer?
Only during a controlled, official recovery process and only when you know exactly why you are doing it. Prefer restoring using the Trezor device itself when possible.

Final checklist

  • Device firmware updated and verified.
  • PIN set and tested.
  • Recovery seed written down in at least two secure places.
  • Trezor Suite installed and linked.
  • Small test transaction verified on the device screen.

You’re now ready to manage your crypto securely with your Trezor device. If you want a printable quickstart guide or tailored instructions for a specific coin or service (e.g. Bitcoin-only, Ethereum + dApps, or using FIDO2), click the button below to download specialized guides.

Download guides