Trézor.io/Start® — Starting Up Your Device

A friendly, step-by-step guide to get your Trézor® hardware wallet running safely and securely.

Why follow the official Start guide?

Your Trézor device is a hardware vault for your crypto private keys. Following the official start workflow protects you from mistakes, tampering, and scams. The official setup verifies device authenticity, installs firmware securely, and helps you create a robust wallet backup — all essential before you move funds.

Quick tip: Keep the box and tamper seals until you’ve completed authentication. If packaging looks tampered with, contact support.

What you’ll need

  • Your new Trézor device and its USB cable.
  • A computer (Windows / macOS / Linux) or a mobile device for Trezor Suite.
  • A private, quiet space to write down recovery words — and a pen or metal backup solution.
  • Patience — setup typically takes about 15 minutes (most users).

Before you start — safety checklist

  • Only use official software: download Trezor Suite from the official site or open trezor.io/start.
  • Do not enter your backup/recovery words on any website or computer — write them physically.
  • Make sure your device is charged (if battery-powered model) and cable/ports are clean.
  • Check packaging for tampering and confirm you purchased from an authorized seller.

Step-by-step setup (simple)

1) Open trezor.io/start or install Trezor Suite

Begin at the official start page. Desktop users can download Trezor Suite for the smoothest experience; the web start wizard will also walk you through the process.

2) Connect your Trézor

Plug your Trézor into the computer using the supplied cable. When prompted, allow the connection on the device. This starts the authentication checks.

3) Install firmware (if required)

New devices often arrive without firmware. The suite or start page will instruct you to install the latest firmware. Follow on-screen instructions and confirm each action on the physical device.

4) Authenticate the device

As part of setup, Trezor Suite will ask you to confirm the device is genuine. Check the device screen and accept prompts only if messaging matches what the Suite shows.

5) Create a wallet & backup (wallet backup)

Choose to create a new wallet. You’ll be prompted to write down recovery words (sometimes called a wallet backup). Write them down in order — never store them digitally or photograph them.

6) Set a PIN

Set a PIN on the device for everyday access. A strong, memorable PIN protects your device if someone obtains it physically.

7) Review security & finalise

Confirm your backup with the device if asked, test a small transaction when you first move funds, and enable any privacy or analytics preferences directly in Suite.

Pro tip: Consider using a durable metal backup plate to store your recovery words if you want long-term protection from fire/water.

Moving coins (when you’re ready)

Once your device is set up and authenticated, move a small test amount from an exchange or hot wallet to your new Trezor address. Confirm the transaction details on the device’s screen before approving. After a successful test, you can move larger amounts.

Always verify addresses on the device display — malware on a connected computer can show altered addresses on the screen if you only rely on the desktop display.

Best practices & troubleshooting

Backups

Store multiple copies of your written backup in secure locations (for example, a safe, a bank deposit box, or separate trusted sites). Keep backups physically separated so one disaster doesn't destroy all copies.

Lost PIN or damaged device

If you forget the PIN but still have your wallet backup, you can restore on a new device. If you lose both PIN and backup, funds cannot be recovered — this is the tradeoff of true self-custody.

Troubleshooting

  • If your device isn't recognized: try another cable or USB port and ensure Trezor Suite is updated.
  • If firmware installation fails: restart the suite, reconnect, and follow the prompts carefully; only use official firmware.
  • Contact official Trezor support if you see unexpected messages or signs of tampering.

Final notes & resources

Setting up a hardware wallet is the most important step to secure long-term crypto holdings. Follow each step patiently, confirm everything on your Trézor’s physical display, and never share your backup words with anyone.

© Trézor® — This page is a friendly setup guide. Always prefer official documentation and authentic downloads from trezor.io. If anything seems off, stop and verify.