Trezor® Hardware Wallet | Start Your Device (Official)
Welcome — this official guide walks you through starting your new Trezor® Hardware Wallet. Follow each step carefully to securely initialize the device, create a PIN, back up your recovery seed, and connect to wallet apps.
What you’ll need
- Your Trezor® Hardware Wallet (Model T or One) and the original USB cable.
- A desktop or laptop with an up-to-date browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Brave) or the Trezor Suite desktop app.
- Administrator access to install software if required.
- A clean, quiet workspace where you can write down your recovery seed securely (pen and paper — do not use digital storage).
Step 1 — Verify packaging and unbox
Before powering up, check the packaging for tamper-evident seals and confirm the device box is genuine. If anything looks suspicious, contact official Trezor support and do not use the device.
Step 2 — Connect and power on
- Plug your Trezor® Hardware Wallet into your computer using the supplied cable.
- The device will display a welcome screen and a prompt to visit trezor.io/start or open the Trezor Suite.
Step 3 — Install Trezor Suite or use the official web starter
Open the official Trezor start page or download Trezor Suite. These official tools guide you through setup, firmware checks, and device initialization. Avoid third-party sites.
Step 4 — Firmware verification and updates
On first connection, your Trezor® Hardware Wallet will check firmware. If an update is available, follow on-screen instructions to install it. Only install firmware offered through official tools — firmware ensures device integrity and security.
Step 5 — Create a PIN
Set a PIN on the device when prompted. This PIN protects access to the device and must be entered each time the wallet is used. Choose a PIN that is memorable but not easily guessed. Never record the PIN alongside your recovery seed.
Step 6 — Write down your recovery seed
The device will generate a recovery seed (12–24 words depending on model). Write these words on the provided recovery card or on paper — never store them digitally. This seed is the only backup for your funds; anyone with the seed can control your assets.
Step 7 — Confirm the seed and finish setup
Trezor will ask you to confirm several words from the seed to ensure you recorded them correctly. After confirmation, your device is initialized and ready to use.
Using your Trezor® Hardware Wallet
Open Trezor Suite or a supported web wallet, choose Connect Trezor, and approve the connection on the device screen. Always verify transaction details on the Trezor display before confirming.
Security best practices
- Only download software from trezor.io or official app stores.
- Keep firmware and apps updated regularly.
- Store your recovery seed offline in multiple secure locations if possible (e.g., safe, bank deposit box).
- Use a passphrase (optional advanced feature) for additional account separation — understand the risks before enabling.
- Never reveal your seed or enter it into a computer, phone, or website.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Device not recognized: Reconnect the cable, try a different USB port, and ensure Trezor Suite or Bridge is installed and running.
- Firmware update failed: Restart the device and computer; follow the official recovery instructions if problems persist.
- Forgot PIN: If you forget your PIN you must restore the device using your recovery seed on a new device or after a factory reset.
FAQ
- Is my money safe if I lose the device?
- Yes — funds are secured by the recovery seed. Use the seed to restore access on another Trezor device or compatible wallet.
- Can I use Trezor on multiple computers?
- Yes — the device can be connected to different machines; just ensure you use trusted, updated software.
