Get Started with Trezor | Official Setup for Your Trezor Wallet

Introduction: Why Choose Trezor?

Trezor hardware wallets are designed to protect your digital assets by keeping private keys offline and out of reach of hackers. Whether you’re storing Bitcoin, Ethereum, or hundreds of supported cryptocurrencies, your Trezor ensures that your private data stays secure even when connected to a computer that may not be fully trusted.

What You Need Before You Start

Before setting up your Trezor wallet, prepare the following items:

• Your Trezor hardware wallet (Trezor Model One or Model T).
• A computer or smartphone with a stable internet connection and a USB or USB-C port.
• The USB cable provided in your Trezor package.
• A pen and the recovery seed card (or a secure offline medium like a metal seed backup).

Step 1: Connect Your Trezor and Launch Setup

1. Unpack your Trezor and ensure the security seal is intact. If it appears tampered with, contact Trezor support before proceeding.
2. Connect your device to your computer using the supplied cable.
3. Open a browser and navigate to trezor.io/start. Follow the on-screen prompts to download or open Trezor Suite.

Trezor Suite is the official app for managing your wallet, performing updates, and sending or receiving cryptocurrencies. It’s available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices.

Step 2: Install or Verify Firmware

New Trezor devices may not come with firmware pre-installed for security reasons. Installing official firmware ensures your wallet uses the most up-to-date security features.

1. When prompted, click Install Firmware in Trezor Suite.
2. Confirm installation on your device by pressing the physical button(s).
3. Wait for the device to reboot. Do not disconnect during installation.

Step 3: Create a New Wallet

Once the firmware is installed, Trezor Suite will prompt you to create a new wallet. This process generates your recovery seed — your master backup phrase.

1. Click Create new wallet and confirm on your device.
2. Wait while the device generates a unique recovery seed.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the backup process.

Step 4: Back Up Your Recovery Seed

Your recovery seed is a series of 12, 18, or 24 random words that can restore your wallet if your device is lost or damaged. Treat it like a physical key to your funds.

1. Carefully write down each word in order on the provided recovery card.
2. Verify each word by confirming them on your Trezor screen.
3. Double-check that you have written them correctly and legibly.

Step 5: Set Your Device PIN

The PIN protects your Trezor from unauthorized physical access. You’ll need to enter this PIN every time you connect your device.

1. When prompted, select Set PIN in Trezor Suite.
2. Enter your chosen PIN using the randomized keypad shown on the device and mirrored on your computer.
3. Confirm by re-entering the same PIN.

Step 6: Optional — Enable a Passphrase

For advanced users, Trezor offers a passphrase feature that adds an extra layer of security. Think of it as a 25th word that creates a unique “hidden” wallet.

• Each unique passphrase generates a different wallet.
• If you forget your passphrase, funds in that wallet cannot be recovered.
• Use only if you fully understand the concept and can remember the phrase securely.

Step 7: Receive and Send Cryptocurrency

To Receive:

1. In Trezor Suite, open the account for the cryptocurrency you wish to receive.
2. Click Receive to generate a new address.
3. Verify that the address displayed in Trezor Suite matches the one shown on your device screen.
4. Copy and share the verified address to receive funds.

To Send:

1. Click Send in Trezor Suite.
2. Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
3. Review all details and confirm the transaction on your Trezor screen.
4. Press the physical button(s) to approve and broadcast the transaction.

Step 8: Security Best Practices

• Keep your seed offline: This is your ultimate backup. Treat it as the key to your vault.
• Never share your seed or PIN: Trezor employees or support will never ask for these.
• Purchase from official sources: Only buy from shop.trezor.io or authorized resellers.
• Keep software updated: Regularly check Trezor Suite for firmware and app updates.
• Use a strong passphrase: If enabled, make it long and memorable.

Step 9: Troubleshooting and FAQs

• Device not recognized: Try a different USB port or cable. Avoid hubs and docks when possible.
• Forgot PIN: Reset your device and restore it using your recovery seed.
• Lost seed: Unfortunately, funds cannot be recovered without the seed. Always create backups.
• Firmware update failed: Restart your device and retry through Trezor Suite. Only install official firmware.

Q: Can I use Trezor with other wallets like MetaMask?
A: Yes, Trezor integrates with MetaMask and other wallets. Always verify connections and confirm actions on your device.

Q: Can I use Trezor on mobile?
A: Some Android phones support Trezor via OTG adapters. Always use the official Trezor Suite mobile app where available.

Q: What if I lose my device?
A: Use your recovery seed to restore your funds on a new Trezor device. As long as you have the seed, your crypto remains safe.

Final Checklist

• Security seal verified.
• Firmware installed from official source.
• Recovery seed backed up offline.
• PIN set and tested.
• Optional passphrase enabled (if used).
• First test transaction completed and verified on device.