Trezor.io/Start® — Secure Wallet Setup & Get Started with Your Trezor Device

Welcome to the official, guided setup for your Trezor hardware wallet. This page, Trezor.io/Start, is your dedicated companion to transform a new device into an impenetrable vault for your cryptocurrency. We’ve designed this process to be both simple and supremely secure, ensuring you establish true self-custody with confidence from the moment you unbox your Trezor.

Why a Meticulous Setup is Non-Negotiable

A Trezor isn’t just a USB drive; it’s your personal gateway to sovereign digital asset management. The security of a hardware wallet is unparalleled, but its strength depends entirely on a correct initial setup. This guide ensures you create an unbreakable foundation, safeguarding your coins from online threats like phishing, malware, and unauthorized access. By following these steps, you take full, uncompromising ownership of your private keys—the core principle of financial sovereignty in the digital age.

Your Pre-Setup Security Briefing

Before connecting your device, please prepare your environment. You will need:

1. Your sealed Trezor device (verify the holographic anti-tamper seal is intact).

2. A computer (desktop or laptop) and the supplied USB cable.

3. The included Recovery Seed Card and a pen.

4. 15-20 minutes of focused time in a private space.

Crucial Reminder: Only download software from trezor.io/start or the official Trezor Suite website. Never use links from emails, social media, or search ads.

Your 3-Phase Setup Journey

Phase 1: Download, Connect & Update

1.  Install Trezor Suite: From your computer, visit trezor.io/start. The page will detect your model and provide the direct link to download Trezor Suite, our official desktop application.

2.  Connect Your Device: Using the supplied cable, connect your Trezor to your computer. Open Trezor Suite and follow the on-screen instructions. The application will verify your device's authenticity.

3.  Install Firmware: Your Trezor may require a firmware installation. This is a critical step that equips your device with the latest security enhancements and features. Always keep your firmware up to date.

Phase 2: The Core of Security: Your Recovery Seed

This phase is the most important action you will take. Your recovery seed is your master backup.

4.  Generate the Seed: Your Trezor device (not the computer screen) will display a unique list of 12, 18, or 24 words in a specific order. This is your recovery seed phrase.

5.  Record It Offline: Using your pen and the provided card, write down each word exactly as shown. Check spelling twice.

   • NEVER digitize this seed. No photos, no cloud documents, no typing.

   • Treat this card like a bar of solid gold. Store it in a secure, offline location like a safe.

6.  Confirm the Seed: Trezor Suite will ask you to confirm the seed by selecting the words in the correct order on your device screen. This step verifies your backup is accurate and that you can use it for recovery.

Phase 3: Finalize Your Personal Fortress

7.  Set a Device PIN: Create a PIN (up to 9 digits) for physical device security. Enter it using the randomized keypad in Suite to prevent keyloggers from capturing your input.

8.  Name Your Device: Give your Trezor a friendly name (e.g., “My Crypto Vault”) for easy identification if you use multiple devices.

9.  (Optional) Enable Passphrase: For advanced users, activating the Passphrase feature creates a hidden wallet behind an additional custom word, providing a "duress wallet" or extra security layer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if I lose my Trezor device or it gets stolen?

Your cryptocurrency is not stored on the physical device; it's on the blockchain. Your device merely secures the keys. Using your Recovery Seed, you can fully restore your wallet, including all transactions and balances, onto a new Trezor or any compatible wallet. This is why safeguarding your seed is paramount.

Q2: Is it safe to update the firmware when prompted?

Yes, absolutely. Firmware updates from Trezor are essential. They patch potential vulnerabilities and add new features. Always ensure you are prompted to update directly within the official Trezor Suite application, never from a pop-up on a website.

Q3: I made a mistake writing down my seed. What should I do?

If you have not yet confirmed the seed on the device, you can safely start the setup process over. In Trezor Suite, select “Wipe Device” and begin again from Phase 1. A new, random seed will be generated. This is safe and recommended if you have any doubt about your backup's accuracy.

Q4: Can I use my Trezor with third-party wallets like MetaMask?
Yes. Trezor is compatible with many popular third-party interfaces (e.g., MetaMask via the Trezor Bridge). However, for your initial setup and highest security assurance, we strongly recommend using the official Trezor Suite. You can explore other connections once your device is securely initialized.

Q5: What happens if I forget my PIN?

After several incorrect PIN attempts, the device will wipe itself to protect against brute-force attacks. This is a security feature, not a fault. You can then recover your entire wallet using your Recovery Seed and set a new PIN. Your funds are safe as long as your seed is safe.

Q6: Why is the 'Passphrase' feature considered optional but advanced?

A passphrase adds a unique, memorized word to your seed, creating a completely separate hidden wallet. It offers superior protection against physical seed theft. However, if you forget your passphrase, it is impossible to recover—the hidden wallet and its funds are permanently inaccessible. Use this feature only after fully understanding its power and responsibility.

Begin Your Sovereign Journey

Your setup is now complete. You hold the keys. Navigate the crypto ecosystem with the confidence that comes from owning the most trusted hardware wallet in the world. Explore Trezor Suite to buy, sell, exchange, and manage your assets—all with the peace of mind that your private keys have never touched an internet-connected device.

Bookmark this page for future reference. For continued security, always start your journey at Trezor.io/Start. Welcome to true security. Welcome to Trezor.

Disclaimer: - Please note that this website is not linked to or endorsed by the official Trezor wallet developers or SatoshiLabs. The website only provides information on wallet usage and its related aspects which are not intended for sales of services offered by Trezor.