Trezor.io/Start: Step-by-Step Guide to Secure Your Crypto

This official-style guide walks you through everything you need to know about setting up, initializing, and securing your Trezor hardware wallet. Whether you’re new to crypto or migrating from a software wallet, these steps will help ensure your assets stay protected.

Why a Hardware Wallet?

When you store cryptocurrency on exchanges or software wallets, your private keys — the cryptographic proof of ownership — are often vulnerable to malware, phishing, or hacks. A hardware wallet like Trezor keeps those private keys offline and away from the internet, drastically reducing the risk of theft.

Official start page: Visit https://trezor.io/start to access the official setup portal. Always type the address manually to avoid phishing clones.

Before You Begin

Before you start, gather the following:

  • Your Trezor device (Model One or Model T).
  • A computer or smartphone with USB or USB-C connectivity.
  • A secure internet connection and a few minutes of uninterrupted time.
  • A pen and the recovery seed card that came in the box (or another offline storage method such as a metal backup).
Never photograph or type your recovery seed on a phone or computer. Keep it offline and private at all times.

Step 1: Connect Your Trezor Device

  1. Unpack your Trezor and confirm the security seal on the packaging is intact. If the seal is damaged, contact Trezor support immediately.
  2. Plug the device into your computer using the provided cable. On mobile, use an official OTG adapter if required.
  3. Open a browser and go to trezor.io/start. From there, you’ll be directed to download or open Trezor Suite, the official management interface.
It’s highly recommended to download the Trezor Suite desktop app rather than using a browser for long-term use, as it offers stronger protection from malicious extensions.

Step 2: Install or Update Firmware

When you first connect your Trezor, it may not have firmware installed. The firmware is the secure software running on your device that ensures all operations are safe and verified.

  1. Follow the on-screen instructions in Trezor Suite to install the official firmware.
  2. Confirm the installation on your device by pressing the physical buttons when prompted.
  3. Wait for the firmware to install and the device to restart. Do not disconnect the cable during this process.
Firmware is cryptographically signed by Trezor. The device will verify the signature to ensure authenticity before completing installation.

Step 3: Create Your Wallet and Backup Recovery Seed

After firmware installation, you’ll be prompted to create a new wallet. This process generates your recovery seed — the only backup of your private keys.

Create a New Wallet

  1. On Trezor Suite, click Create a new wallet.
  2. Follow prompts on your computer and confirm actions on your Trezor screen.

Write Down Your Recovery Seed

  1. Your device will display a sequence of 12, 18, or 24 words — this is your recovery seed.
  2. Write each word in order on the provided recovery card or a secure offline medium.
  3. Double-check every word carefully and confirm when the device asks you to verify specific words.
Warning: Your recovery seed is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost or damaged. Anyone with this seed can access your funds. Never store it online or share it with anyone.

Step 4: Set a Secure PIN

Once your wallet is created, you’ll be asked to set a PIN code. The PIN prevents unauthorized access to your device if someone physically obtains it.

  1. Choose a unique PIN between 4–9 digits long. Avoid simple combinations like 1234 or repeating numbers.
  2. Enter your PIN using the randomized keypad displayed in Trezor Suite — this prevents keyloggers from recording your input.
  3. Confirm the PIN by entering it again when prompted.
If you forget your PIN, you can reset your device and recover it using your recovery seed — but all stored data on the device will be erased.

Step 5: (Optional) Enable Passphrase Protection

The passphrase is an advanced optional feature that adds an extra layer of security. It’s like adding a secret word on top of your recovery seed, effectively creating a “hidden” wallet.

  • Each different passphrase generates a completely separate wallet.
  • Forget the passphrase, and that wallet’s funds are permanently inaccessible — even with the recovery seed.
Enable the passphrase only if you fully understand how it works and can securely remember it.

Step 6: Receiving and Sending Crypto

Receiving Crypto

  1. In Trezor Suite, select the account of the coin you want to receive.
  2. Click Receive to generate a wallet address.
  3. Verify the address on your Trezor’s display matches the one shown on your computer before sharing it.
  4. Copy and share that verified address with the sender or exchange.

Sending Crypto

  1. Open the Send tab in Trezor Suite.
  2. Enter the recipient’s address and amount.
  3. Check all transaction details carefully, then confirm them on your device display.
  4. Press the device button(s) to authorize and broadcast the transaction.
Always verify every address and amount on your Trezor’s physical screen. The device’s display is your trusted source of truth — never trust the computer screen alone.

Step 7: Ongoing Security Best Practices

  • Keep your recovery seed offline. Store it in a fireproof, waterproof location.
  • Never share your seed or PIN. Trezor support will never ask for it.
  • Update firmware regularly. Use only official updates provided by Trezor Suite.
  • Verify URLs. Always type trezor.io manually into your browser.
  • Consider metal backups. Paper can deteriorate — steel plates preserve your seed against fire and water.
Scam alert: Fake Trezor support sites and social media accounts are common. The official site is trezor.io — anything else is a scam.

Step 8: Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Device not recognized: Try a different USB port, cable, or another computer. Avoid USB hubs.
  • Forgot PIN: Reset the device and recover using your recovery seed.
  • Lost seed: Unfortunately, without the recovery seed, funds cannot be restored. Always create backups early.
  • Firmware update fails: Disconnect, reconnect, and retry using Trezor Suite. Ensure you’re using an official cable.
  • Display shows warning: Follow on-screen prompts — the device will not proceed unless the firmware signature is verified.

Step 9: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use my Trezor with multiple computers?
A: Yes. Your private keys stay inside the Trezor. You can safely connect it to different computers as long as you only use the official Trezor Suite or verified wallet integrations.

Q: Can I use Trezor with other wallets like MetaMask?
A: Yes, Trezor supports integration with wallets like MetaMask and Electrum. Always confirm any connection through the device screen before approving access.

Q: What happens if my device is lost or damaged?
A: Use your recovery seed on a new Trezor to restore all accounts and balances exactly as before. As long as you have your recovery seed, your funds are safe.

Q: How do I verify if my Trezor is genuine?
A: Purchase only from shop.trezor.io or authorized resellers. Check packaging integrity, hologram seals, and use the Trezor Suite authenticity check during setup.

Final Checklist

  • Device seal checked and verified.
  • Firmware installed from official source.
  • Recovery seed written down securely and stored offline.
  • PIN and optional passphrase configured.
  • First transaction successfully verified on the device screen.
Congratulations! Your Trezor is now fully set up. From this point forward, your crypto assets are protected by one of the most trusted hardware security systems available. Keep your recovery seed safe and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re in full control of your keys.

Need additional assistance? Visit the official Trezor Support Center for tutorials, troubleshooting, and verified community help.

© 2025 Trezor.io – Secure your digital assets safely.