Introduction
Welcome to Trezor.io/Start® — Starting Up Your Device. This quick guide explains the essential steps for taking your new Trezor hardware wallet from the box to managing your first transactions. You’ll learn how to download the official software, connect your device, create or recover a wallet, set a secure PIN, and apply best security practices to protect your funds. The goal is practical clarity: simple steps you can follow even if you’re new to hardware wallets.
Before You Begin
Make sure you’re using a personal computer you trust and a secure internet connection. Avoid public Wi-Fi for initial setup and downloads. Keep the recovery seed card included with the device nearby but do not write your seed on a screen or store it digitally. Always download software only from official Trezor sources; counterfeit apps or websites are a common vector for scams.
Download and Install
Visit the official site (Trezor.io/Start) and download Trezor Suite for your operating system. Choose the desktop app for the most features and offline stability. Verify the installer if checksum or signature verification instructions are provided; this adds an extra layer of assurance that the software hasn’t been tampered with.
Follow on-screen prompts to install. If your operating system asks for permissions, review them and proceed only if they match the installer’s expected behavior. Once installed, open the Suite and prepare to connect your device.
Connect Your Device
Use the included USB cable or a trusted cable to connect your Trezor to the computer. When the Suite detects the device, it will show a hardware initialization screen. If the device already contains a setup, you will be offered options to create a new wallet or recover an existing one. Always confirm prompts on the Trezor device display itself — device confirmation is the most secure place to validate addresses and actions.
Create or Recover a Wallet
If you’re new, choose “Create a new wallet.” The device will generate a recovery seed (typically 12, 18, or 24 words) which you must write down exactly as shown and store safely offline. If you already have a seed, select “Recover wallet” and follow the device prompts to enter your words. Never share your seed with anyone and never store it in cloud notes or screenshots.
Set a PIN and Optional Passphrase
Set a strong, memorable PIN on the device to prevent unauthorized local access. The Suite guides you through PIN creation and warns against trivial numbers. For added security, consider using the passphrase feature — this acts as an extension to your seed and creates an additional hidden wallet. Use passphrases only if you understand the responsibility: losing the passphrase means losing access to the associated funds.
Using Trezor Suite — Send & Receive
To receive funds, generate an address in the Suite and confirm it on the device screen before sharing it. To send, enter the recipient address and amount in the Suite, then review the transaction details on your Trezor device and approve physically. This two-step approach ensures the most important checks happen on the hardware screen, which cannot be tampered with by malware on your computer.
Security Tips
- Keep your recovery seed offline and stored in a safe place — consider a fireproof safe or a secure physical backup.
- Never type or photograph your seed. Do not enter it into a website or send it by message.
- Only use official software and check for firmware updates through Trezor Suite.
- If you suspect compromise, move funds using a clean computer and restore the wallet on a new device using your seed.
FAQ & Troubleshooting
Q: The Suite won’t detect my device. A: Try a different USB port/cable and ensure the device screen shows the Trezor logo. Rebooting the computer can also help. If problems persist, consult official support.
Q: Can I install the Suite on multiple computers? A: Yes — your Trezor device and recovery seed are the single source of truth; multiple Suite installations can connect safely.