Trezor.io/Start® (Official) — Congrats on your new Trezor

A friendly, security-first quickstart to get your hardware wallet ready. Follow these steps carefully — your funds depend on them.

Welcome — what to expect

This guide walks you from unboxing to your first secure transaction. It highlights the critical security steps — firmware verification, recovery seed safekeeping, and confirming actions on your device. Take your time and never rush through the recovery seed or passphrase steps.

Private keys remain offline

Your Trezor signs transactions on-device

Recoverable

24-word seed restores access

Cross-platform

Trezor Suite on Windows / macOS / Linux

Unboxing & initial checks

Verify the box seal and contents. Genuine packaging includes the device, USB cable, recovery seed card, and quick-start instructions. If anything seems tampered with, stop and contact Trezor support via the official site.

  • Inspect tamper seal and packaging.
  • Ensure the device model matches (T or One).
  • Keep the box — it's useful for storage and support.

Step 1 — Install Trezor Suite (official)

Do NOT download software from third-party links. Visit trezor.io/start and select the appropriate installer. Trezor Suite is the official app that guides you through device initialization and firmware updates.

  1. Download and install Trezor Suite for your OS.
  2. Open Suite and choose "Create new wallet" when prompted.
  3. Connect your device via the supplied USB cable.

Step 2 — Firmware & device authenticity

The Suite will check your device firmware. If an update is required, apply it through the Suite only. The device will display verification prompts — confirm what you see on the physical screen. Never trust firmware prompts shown only inside the Suite without physical confirmation.

  • Only update firmware from Suite's prompts.
  • Confirm firmware hash and prompts on-device.
  • Do not install unofficial firmware.

Step 3 — Create PIN & recovery seed

Choose a PIN when prompted — it protects device access. The Suite will then show you your recovery seed words; write them down on the provided card, in order. This seed is the single backup of your private keys.

Do this now:
  • Write the 24 words in order, using the recovery card or a metal backup.
  • Store the seed offline in a secure place — consider a safe or bank deposit box.
  • Do NOT photograph, scan, or store the seed digitally.

Step 4 — Optional passphrase (advanced)

A passphrase adds an extra layer of defense — it creates a hidden wallet derived from your seed. Use it only if you understand the implications: losing the passphrase means losing access to funds in that hidden wallet.

  • Passphrases are case-sensitive and exact — treat them like a second seed.
  • Document and safeguard passphrases separately from your recovery seed.
  • Consider hardware-enforced passphrase storage methods if using frequently.

Step 5 — Add accounts & receive funds

Within Suite, add accounts for the coins you want to use. Each account will display receiving addresses — always verify the full address on your device screen before sharing it. Labels and metadata can help you keep addresses organized.

  • Create accounts for BTC, ETH, and other supported assets.
  • Use labeling to track purpose (savings, exchange, payroll).
  • Confirm each receiving address on-device.

Everyday Security habits

Good habits reduce risk enormously. Always verify transaction details on the Trezor screen, keep your computer up to date, and never enter your recovery seed into any software.

  • Verify amounts and recipient addresses on-device.
  • Avoid public Wi‑Fi when performing transactions.
  • Use view-only machines for bookkeeping where possible.

Troubleshooting & support

If the device is not detected, try a different cable or USB port and ensure Suite has permissions. For account, hardware or firmware issues, use official support channels at trezor.io/support.

  • Device not recognized: try another USB cable/port and restart Suite.
  • Firmware update fails: ensure stable internet and power; retry via Suite.
  • Lost seed or suspected compromise: move funds to a new wallet after securing a new device/seed.

Advanced workflows

Power users may use watch-only wallets, combine passphrase layers, or integrate Suite with self-hosted nodes. Always test workflows on small amounts before moving significant funds.

  • Use XPUBs to create watch-only wallets for auditing.
  • Coin control for privacy-conscious Bitcoin spending.
  • Integrate with coin-joining or privacy tools carefully; verify all signatures on-device.

Final checklist

  • Downloaded Suite from trezor.io/start
  • Verified firmware and device authenticity
  • Recorded recovery seed offline and securely
  • Set a PIN and (optionally) a passphrase
  • Tested sending/receiving with a small amount