Trezor.io/start — Get Started with Your Trezor Device

This guide walks you through everything you need to safely set up and use your Trezor hardware wallet (Trezor One or Trezor Model T). It covers initial setup, recovery, everyday use, firmware updates, and essential security practices.

Overview — What is a Trezor device?

Trezor is a hardware wallet that securely stores your cryptocurrency private keys offline. Your Trezor device signs transactions inside the device so your private keys never touch your internet-connected computer or phone. Trezor devices support many coins, tokens, and integrations with wallets and services.

  • Models: Trezor One and Trezor Model T.
  • Secure element & open-source firmware (Model differences explained in the manual).
  • Recovery via a recovery seed — use it only on the device during setup or restore.

Before you begin

  • Unbox your device and check packaging for tamper evidence.
  • Use the official Trezor website for downloads: trezor.io/start.
  • Have a pen and the supplied recovery card or a secure medium ready to write down your recovery seed.
  • Prefer a clean computer (up-to-date OS, trustworthy network) to perform setup.

Important: Never set up your device using recovery words received via email, social media, or messages. Only follow steps on the official site and device screen.

Step 1 — Download Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is the official desktop app (also available as a web app) that guides you through setup and lets you manage your accounts. Download it from the official start page for your platform.

Go to trezor.io/start

Verify the download source and prefer the signed installer for your operating system. If using the web app, ensure you are on the correct domain and HTTPS is active.

Step 2 — Connect and initialize your Trezor

  1. Plug your Trezor into your computer using the included USB cable.
  2. Open Trezor Suite (or the web app) and follow the on-screen instructions to detect your device.
  3. Choose Create a new device (for a brand-new device) or Recover device if you already have a recovery seed.
  4. Set a PIN directly on the device when prompted — this PIN protects the device from local access if stolen.

On-device confirmation: Always confirm prompts shown on the physical device screen. Do not accept or type sensitive data shown only on your computer unless it matches the device prompt.

Step 3 — Write down your recovery seed

During initialization, your Trezor will generate a recovery seed (typically 12, 18, or 24 words). This seed is the backup of your wallet — it restores your funds on any compatible wallet if you lose your device.

  1. Write the words exactly, in order, on the supplied recovery card or a dedicated backup medium.
  2. Store the seed securely offline — consider multiple physical copies kept in separate, secure locations.
  3. Never store the seed digitally (photos, cloud, notes) and never share it with anyone.

Recovery seed safety: If an attacker obtains your seed, they control your funds. Trezor staff will never ask for it.

Step 4 — Add accounts and manage assets

After setup, add cryptocurrency accounts in Trezor Suite:

  1. Open Trezor Suite → Accounts → Add account.
  2. Select the coin (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) — Trezor supports many blockchains directly or via external apps.
  3. Allow the Suite to sync and index transaction history; balances appear after synchronization.

Some coins or tokens may require third-party wallet integration (e.g., certain ERC-20 tokens, altchains). Trezor Suite will guide you when an external wallet is recommended.

Send & Receive — Practical steps

Receiving funds

  1. In Trezor Suite, choose the account and click Receive.
  2. Verify the receiving address on your device screen — confirm it matches what appears in the app.
  3. Use that confirmed address to receive funds.

Sending funds

  1. Click Send, enter recipient address and amount, and review fee options.
  2. Confirm transaction details in the app and then confirm/sign on the physical Trezor device.
  3. Transaction is broadcast after signing; monitor confirmation on the blockchain.

Safety tip: Always verify addresses on the device display — never trust only the computer display.

Firmware updates & device maintenance

Keep your Trezor firmware and Trezor Suite up to date. Firmware updates contain security patches and improvements.

  1. Trezor Suite will notify you of available firmware updates.
  2. Follow on-screen instructions; firmware updates require confirming actions on the device.
  3. Do not interrupt the update (disconnecting power/USB) during the process.

Always update only from Trezor Suite or the official site. If you encounter issues, consult Trezor support documentation before attempting recoveries.

Advanced options & integrations

  • Passphrase (optional): An advanced feature that adds an extra word to your seed to create hidden wallets. Use with caution — losing the passphrase means losing access to that hidden wallet.
  • Multisig: Trezor can be used in multisig setups with compatible software for enhanced security.
  • Third-party wallets: Integrate with wallets like Electrum, Exodus, or web3 wallets as needed for advanced features.

Warning about passphrases: Passphrases are powerful but risky. If you enable one, ensure you back up and store it as securely as the recovery seed.

Troubleshooting — Common issues

  • Device not detected: Try another USB port/cable, ensure cable supports data (not charge-only), and verify the device screen is on.
  • Sync problems: Restart Trezor Suite, check internet connectivity, or re-add the account.
  • Firmware update failed: Reboot and retry; if persistent, consult Trezor support and do not enter your recovery seed except on the device.
  • Lost device: Restore funds using your recovery seed on a new Trezor or compatible wallet.

Security checklist

  • Only download Trezor Suite from trezor.io/start.
  • Never enter your recovery seed into a phone/computer — only on the Trezor device when restoring.
  • Keep multiple physical backups of your recovery seed in separate secure locations.
  • Use a device PIN and consider using a passphrase only if you understand the risks.
  • Be wary of phishing sites, emails, or social media messages impersonating Trezor. Always verify the URL and SSL certificate.

FAQ

Can I recover my wallet on another device?

Yes — your recovery seed can be used to restore your wallet on any compatible hardware wallet or supported software wallet.

What if I lose my recovery seed?

If you lose your recovery seed and the device, there is no way to recover access to your funds. Store the seed securely and consider multiple backups.

Is Trezor compatible with mobile?

Trezor primarily uses desktop Trezor Suite, but mobile integrations exist via some third-party wallets and web interfaces. Check official docs for supported workflows.

Final notes

Setting up a Trezor hardware wallet properly secures your private keys offline and significantly reduces the risk of online theft. Follow the official instructions at trezor.io/start, keep backups safe, and always verify actions on your physical device.