Trezor® Hardware Wallet | Getting Started with Trezor™ Securely

Welcome to your official step-by-step guide for setting up your Trezor® hardware wallet. This comprehensive walkthrough will help you safely initialize, back up, and use your Trezor device to protect your digital assets from online threats.

1. Introduction: Why Trezor?

Trezor® hardware wallets are designed to keep your cryptocurrency safe by storing your private keys offline, away from internet-connected devices. Unlike software wallets, which can be compromised by malware or phishing, Trezor ensures that your sensitive information never leaves the device. Every transaction is verified directly on your hardware wallet screen, giving you full control over your funds.

Tip: Always verify that you are on the official site trezor.io/start when setting up your device. Fake websites are common scams in the crypto world.

2. What You’ll Need Before Starting

  • Your new Trezor hardware wallet (Model One or Model T).
  • A computer or smartphone with a stable internet connection.
  • The original USB cable that came with your device.
  • A pen and the included recovery seed card.
  • Patience and a secure, quiet space for setup — this process requires careful attention.
Important: Never buy used hardware wallets. Always purchase directly from Trezor.io or an authorized reseller to avoid tampered devices.

3. Connecting and Launching Your Trezor

  1. Plug your Trezor into your computer using the provided USB cable.
  2. Visit trezor.io/start in your browser. This link will redirect you to the official Trezor Suite download page.
  3. Download and install the Trezor Suite application for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  4. Launch Trezor Suite and connect your device. It should be automatically recognized.

Once connected, the device may prompt you to install firmware if it’s new or hasn’t been initialized yet.

4. Installing Firmware

The firmware is the core software that runs your Trezor wallet. When you first connect your device, it will likely need the latest firmware installed.

  1. Follow the on-screen prompt to install firmware via Trezor Suite.
  2. Verify the firmware signature directly on your device display — only proceed if it matches the official signature.
  3. Wait until the installation is complete before disconnecting your device.
Note: Firmware updates ensure that your wallet is protected by the latest security improvements. Always perform updates from within Trezor Suite.

5. Creating a New Wallet

Once the firmware is installed, you’ll have two choices: Create a new wallet or Recover an existing wallet. For new users, select “Create new wallet.”

  1. Click Create new wallet in the Trezor Suite.
  2. When prompted, confirm on your Trezor device by pressing the physical button(s).
  3. The device will then generate a new recovery seed for you to back up.
Security Reminder: The recovery seed is the most important element of your wallet. Anyone with access to this seed can access your crypto. Write it down and store it offline — never type it into a computer or phone.

6. Backing Up Your Recovery Seed

The recovery seed is a sequence of 12, 18, or 24 words displayed on your Trezor’s screen. It’s the only backup that can restore your wallet if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

  1. Use the recovery card included in your package to write each word carefully in the exact order shown.
  2. Double-check spelling and order before proceeding.
  3. Confirm the words on your device when prompted to verify correctness.
Store the recovery card in a fireproof and waterproof location, such as a safe or a safety deposit box. Consider creating two copies in separate secure locations.

7. Setting Your PIN

Next, you’ll set up a personal PIN to secure physical access to your device. The PIN prevents unauthorized users from operating your Trezor if they get hold of it.

  1. When prompted, select Set PIN in Trezor Suite.
  2. Your Trezor device will display a scrambled number grid.
  3. Use the grid to enter your desired PIN via your computer — the numbers’ positions change each time for added security.

Choose a PIN that is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. Avoid simple sequences like 1234 or 0000.

8. Exploring Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is your control center for managing cryptocurrencies. You can view balances, send and receive funds, and monitor transaction history — all while keeping your private keys offline inside your Trezor.

  • Accounts: Manage multiple cryptocurrencies from one dashboard.
  • Portfolio: Track your total holdings and value in real time.
  • Send & Receive: Easily move funds with on-device confirmation.
  • Security: Review device health, firmware version, and backup status.
You can use Trezor Suite in either standard mode or Tor-enabled anonymous mode for enhanced privacy.

9. Receiving Cryptocurrency

To receive crypto into your Trezor wallet:

  1. In Trezor Suite, select the account and click Receive.
  2. Verify the receiving address shown on your computer matches the one displayed on your Trezor device screen.
  3. Copy the verified address and share it with the sender.
  4. Wait for blockchain confirmations — your balance will update automatically once confirmed.
Never skip verification! Malware on a computer can change addresses. Always confirm the address on your device screen before accepting funds.

10. Sending Cryptocurrency

Sending funds is just as simple:

  1. Select the account you wish to send from and click Send.
  2. Enter the recipient address and amount in Trezor Suite.
  3. Review transaction details carefully on your Trezor’s screen.
  4. Approve the transaction by pressing the confirmation button.
Double-check all recipient addresses and amounts. Transactions on the blockchain are irreversible once confirmed.

11. Updating Firmware and Maintenance

Regularly check for firmware updates through Trezor Suite. Updates improve security, add new features, and ensure compatibility with the latest coins.

  1. Open Trezor Suite and connect your device.
  2. If an update is available, follow the guided instructions.
  3. Verify firmware authenticity on your device before proceeding.

12. Security Best Practices

  • Keep your recovery seed completely offline and private.
  • Never enter your recovery seed on any website or app.
  • Only install updates or apps from official Trezor sources.
  • Use passphrase protection for additional security (advanced users).
  • Disconnect your Trezor when not in use.
Remember: Trezor Support will never ask for your recovery seed, PIN, or passphrase. If someone does, it’s a scam.

13. Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Device not recognized: Try a different USB port or cable. Restart Trezor Suite and reconnect.
  • Forgot PIN: You can reset your device and restore from your recovery seed.
  • Firmware failed: Retry the installation or contact Trezor Support.
  • Seed mismatch: If you wrote the wrong words, reset the device and create a new wallet immediately.

14. Final Checklist

  • ✅ Firmware is updated to the latest version.
  • ✅ Recovery seed written down and stored safely.
  • ✅ PIN set and confirmed.
  • ✅ Backup verified.
  • ✅ Tested sending and receiving small transactions.

Your Trezor is now ready to keep your crypto assets secure for the long term.

For more detailed guidance or troubleshooting, visit the official Trezor Support Center. Remember — the key to crypto security is keeping your private information offline and under your control.

© 2025 Trezor™. All rights reserved. This guide is for informational purposes and complements the official documentation provided by Trezor.io.