Trézor.io/Start | Getting Started & Secure Device Setup

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— 4 min read

Get Started With Your Trezor: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Welcome to your first step toward stronger digital asset security. Setting up a Trezor hardware wallet is simple, fast, and designed to give you full control over your cryptocurrency. This guide walks you through the entire process—from unboxing your device to securing your recovery seed and making your first transaction—so you can confidently protect your crypto from online threats.

Whether you are new to hardware wallets or upgrading from software-based storage, this page will guide you through everything you need to know to begin your self-custody journey the right way.

1. What You Need Before You Begin

To set up your Trezor quickly and safely, have the following ready:

  • Your Trezor hardware wallet (Trezor Model One, Model T, Safe 3, etc.)
  • A USB cable (included with the device)
  • A computer or mobile device running a modern browser
  • A stable internet connection
  • Your recovery seed cards (included in the box)
  • A pen to write down your recovery seed

Make sure your Trezor packaging arrives sealed and untampered. If something seems off, contact Trezor support before proceeding.

2. Connect Your Trezor to Your Computer

  1. Plug your Trezor into your computer using the provided USB cable.
  2. Once connected, the screen on your device will activate and prompt you to visit the official onboarding page.
  3. Open your browser and go to the Trezor setup page.

Connecting your device only powers it—no sensitive information is sent anywhere unless you authorize it. Your keys always stay inside your device.

3. Install the Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is the official software that allows you to manage your crypto securely. It helps you send, receive, track your portfolio, and adjust important security settings.

Download and Install Trezor Suite

  1. On your computer, download Trezor Suite from the official website.
  2. Select the version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  3. Install the software and launch it for the first time.
  4. Connect your Trezor if you haven’t already.

Trezor Suite communicates directly with your device, ensuring your private keys never leave the hardware.

4. Update Your Firmware

Before you create your wallet, the Trezor Suite may ask you to install or update firmware.

Firmware is the operating system your device runs on. Installing the latest version ensures you get:

  • The newest security improvements
  • Support for additional cryptocurrencies
  • General performance enhancements

Follow the on-screen instructions. You may need to confirm the update on the device itself. After the update is complete, the device will reboot and reconnect automatically.

5. Create a New Wallet

With your firmware up to date, Trezor Suite will prompt you to create your first wallet.

Steps to Create Your Wallet

  1. Select Create new wallet inside Trezor Suite.
  2. Your device will guide you through initial setup actions.
  3. You’ll be asked to generate your recovery seed—the single most important part of your wallet.

This recovery seed is your backup key. Anyone with your recovery seed can gain full access to your crypto, so treat it with extreme care.

6. Write Down Your Recovery Seed

Your Trezor device will display a series of 12, 18, or 24 words. These words form your recovery seed. Write them down exactly as shown, including spelling, order, and spacing.

Important Recovery Seed Rules

  • Never type your seed into a computer or phone.
  • Never take a photo or digital copy.
  • Store your written seed offline in a secure, private location.
  • Consider using a metal backup (such as Trezor’s metal seed plates) for fire- and water-resistance.

Your recovery seed is your only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Trezor cannot restore it for you.

7. Secure Your Trezor With a PIN

To protect your device from unauthorized physical access, Trezor Suite will ask you to create a PIN.

Choosing a Strong PIN

  • Use 4–50 digits.
  • Avoid repeating digits or predictable sequences.
  • Never share your PIN with anyone.

Each time you connect your Trezor, you will enter this PIN. If someone steals your device, the PIN prevents them from accessing your crypto.

8. Explore the Trezor Suite Dashboard

Once your wallet is created, you’ll see your Trezor Suite dashboard. It provides a secure interface to manage your assets.

Key Features

  • Account Management
    Add or manage multiple asset accounts.
  • Sending and Receiving Crypto
    Generate receive addresses or send funds with ease.
  • Portfolio Overview
    Track the value of your assets over time.
  • Security Settings
    Adjust passphrase settings, PIN, and other protection features.
  • Buy, Sell, Exchange Options
    Access integrated services while keeping your keys safely offline.

Every action involving sensitive data—such as confirming a transaction—must be approved directly on your Trezor device, ensuring full control.

9. Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

Trezor supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies, depending on the model you use. To manage an asset, add an account for it.

To Add an Account:

  1. Click Add account in Trezor Suite.
  2. Choose the cryptocurrency.
  3. Confirm on your Trezor device if prompted.

You can add multiple accounts for different asset types or personal use cases.

10. Receive Your First Crypto

To receive funds:

  1. Open the account for the asset you want to receive.
  2. Select Receive.
  3. Trezor Suite will show a new receiving address.
  4. Confirm the address directly on your Trezor device.
    (This verifies it hasn’t been tampered with.)
  5. Share the address with the sender.

Always verify addresses on the hardware device itself—this prevents malware from altering them.

11. Send Crypto Safely

When sending crypto:

  1. Open the asset account.
  2. Select Send.
  3. Enter the recipient address and amount.
  4. Review the details in Trezor Suite.
  5. Approve the transaction on your Trezor device.

Nothing is ever broadcast without your physical confirmation.

12. Strengthen Your Security With a Passphrase (Optional)

Advanced users can enable a passphrase, which creates a "hidden wallet" on top of your recovery seed.

A passphrase:

  • Adds an extra layer of protection
  • Creates multiple hidden wallets
  • Must be remembered exactly—there is no way to recover it

This is recommended for users seeking maximum security.

13. Tips for Long-Term Crypto Safety

To keep your wallet secure:

  • Keep your recovery seed offline and well-protected.
  • Regularly update your device firmware.
  • Verify addresses on the device screen.
  • Never share private information with anyone claiming to be support.
  • Store your device in a safe place when not in use.

With proper practices, your Trezor can protect your assets for many years.

You’re Ready to Use Your Trezor

Your hardware wallet is now set up and ready. You’ve taken an important step toward securing your cryptocurrency with industry-leading hardware security, clear transparency, and complete personal control.

Continue exploring Trezor Suite, manage your assets confidently, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your crypto is protected by one of the most trusted self-custody solutions in the world.

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