Welcome — Start Smart, Stay Secure
Starting up your Trezor® device is the most important step to secure self-custody. This guide walks you through each phase: unboxing, first boot, firmware check, creating or restoring a recovery seed, and setting up strong access controls. Follow these steps to ensure your hardware wallet is genuine, updated, and prepared to keep private keys offline and safe.
Before you begin
Find a clean, private workspace and the original box contents: device, USB cable, recovery cards (if included), and instructions. Avoid public Wi-Fi for the first setup and never share your recovery seed with anyone — Trezor® support will never ask for your seed.
Step-by-step: Start up your device
- Connect the device: Plug your Trezor® into your computer or mobile device using the provided cable. Use the official Trezor.io/Start portal to begin the guided setup flow.
- Verify firmware: The app will check device firmware. Approve any firmware update on the device screen — firmware keeps the device secure and compatible with Web3 apps.
- Create or recover: Choose Create New to generate a fresh recovery seed (recommended for new users) or Recover Wallet if restoring an existing seed. When creating, write down your seed exactly and store it offline.
- Set a PIN: Choose a PIN that resists guessing and store it only in your memory — not with your recovery seed. PINs add an essential layer of physical protection.
- Passphrase (optional): For advanced users, enable a passphrase to create hidden wallet layers. Treat passphrases like additional secret keys; losing one may make funds unrecoverable.
- Install apps & sync: Once initialized, install companion apps and check your accounts. Confirm small test transactions to validate setup before moving larger funds.
Best practices for recovery seed
Your recovery seed is the ultimate backup. Use the supplied recovery card or a durable metal backup. Avoid photos, cloud storage, or digital copies. Duplicate copies are helpful but store each in a different, secure location — consider a bank safe or secure home safe.
Troubleshooting common issues
If the device doesn’t boot, try a different USB cable or port. If firmware update stalls, disconnect and retry with the official Trezor.io/Start utility. For verification warnings, stop and consult official support channels — never bypass verification prompts.
Security checklist (quick)
- Confirm device authenticity and tamper-free packaging.
- Always use the official Trezor.io/Start site for setup.
- Never enter your recovery seed on a computer or website.
- Store seed offline, ideally on a metal backup.
- Keep firmware up to date and verify updates on-device.
Why Trezor Start matters
A secure initial setup is the foundation of long-term crypto security. Trezor.io/Start streamlines that foundation — ensuring keys are generated in a cold environment, firmware is genuine, and recovery workflows are clear. Good setup habits increase resilience against theft, phishing, and accidental loss.
FAQ — quick answers
Can I set up without internet? The device generates keys offline, but initial firmware verification and app interactions use an internet-connected host. Use a trusted machine and official site for checks.
What if I lose my device? Your recovery seed restores access to your funds on a new device — keep it secure and discoverable only by you.
Important: This page is a friendly guide. Always use official Trezor sources for downloads and support. Never share your recovery seed or PIN with anyone.