Trezor.io/Start | Starting® Up® Your® Device®

Trezor.io/Start is the recommended entry point when setting up a new Trezor device or restoring one from a backup. This guide covers the key steps — unboxing, initialization, recovery seed handling, PIN creation, and basic operations — while emphasizing the best practices every user should follow to keep funds safe.

Before you start

Do a quick readiness check: use a trusted computer, avoid public Wi-Fi while initializing, and ensure you have a clean, private surface to write your recovery words. Have a pen and the recovery card or metal backup ready. If possible, download the official Trezor Suite app in advance from Trezor’s official site so you’ll have the latest setup flow and firmware checks.

Step 1 — Unboxing and inspection

Inspect the packaging for tamper-evident seals and factory indicators. Purchase only from official retailers or authorized sellers. If anything appears suspicious, contact the vendor and Trezor support before proceeding.

Step 2 — Connect and verify

Use the provided cable to connect your Trezor to your computer. Navigate to trezor.io/start or open the Trezor Suite app. The site/app performs a verification routine to ensure your device's firmware is genuine. Follow on-screen instructions — never skip or ignore verification steps.

Step 3 — Initialize your device

Choose whether to create a new wallet or restore from an existing seed. Creating a new wallet generates a Recovery Seed (typically 12, 18, or 24 words) that represents your private key. The seed must be recorded exactly and kept offline. Trezor will also prompt you to confirm several words to ensure you've recorded them correctly.

Step 4 — Create a secure PIN

Select a PIN using the device’s randomized keypad. This prevents keyloggers from learning your PIN. Use a PIN you can remember but that isn't easily guessed. The PIN prevents casual physical access—if the device is stolen, the PIN adds a layer of protection.

Step 5 — Optional passphrase and hidden wallets

Trezor supports an optional passphrase feature. This acts as a 25th seed word and creates hidden wallets. A passphrase can significantly strengthen security but also adds complexity: if you lose the passphrase, those funds are inaccessible. Use it only if you understand the responsibility and can reliably store the passphrase securely.

Basic operations after setup

After setup you can use Trezor Suite to view balances, receive funds, and send transactions. Always verify full transaction details on the device screen before confirming — the hardware display is the final authority. When interacting with smart contracts or unknown tokens, exercise extra caution and verify contract addresses from trusted sources.

Security checklist

• Keep your recovery seed offline and in a physically secure place.
• Use a unique device PIN and enable passphrase only if you manage it safely.
• Confirm all transaction details on the Trezor device screen before approving.
• Regularly check for firmware updates using official channels and follow instructions carefully.
• Consider metal backups for recovery words to protect against fire, water, and decay.

Handling your device and daily habits

Limit exposure of your device to unfamiliar machines. If you must use a shared computer, prefer read-only actions and never enter your recovery words. For frequent small transfers use normal setup; for large or institutional holdings consider multisignature (multisig) arrangements and cold storage best practices.

Troubleshooting common issues

If the device fails to initialize, first try a different USB port or cable. Reboot the host computer and ensure that OS drivers are up to date. If you see firmware warnings, follow the official update prompts. If you suspect tampering or persistent odd behavior, stop and contact Trezor support with device identifiers and purchase details.

Advanced: restoring from seed

To restore, choose the restore option in the initialization flow and enter your recovery words in the exact order. If you used a passphrase originally, you must supply the same passphrase during restore. After restoring, verify small test transactions before moving substantial funds.

Glossary

Recovery Seed: human-readable words representing your private key. PIN: numeric code protecting device access. Passphrase: optional secret that creates hidden wallets. Multisig: multiple keys required to sign transactions.

Final notes

Starting a Trezor device is a one-time process that pays dividends in security for years. Approach the setup carefully, use official resources, and build healthy habits: verify URLs, never share seeds, and confirm every transaction on the device itself.

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or technical advice. Always consult official Trezor documentation and support channels for device-specific instructions. The author is not responsible for losses or damage caused by following the steps above. Use proper caution and do your own research before performing any high-value transactions.