Welcome — what this guide covers
This guide walks you through every stage of getting started with your Trezor device: unboxing, connecting, installing Trezor Suite, updating firmware, generating and protecting your recovery seed, setting a PIN, optional passphrase setup, daily usage, and security best practices. Follow these steps carefully to make sure your cryptocurrency stays secure from online threats, phishing attempts, and accidental loss.
Why a Trezor hardware wallet?
Trezor keeps your private keys offline inside a secure hardware device. Transactions are signed on-device, so even if your computer is compromised, attackers cannot extract your keys. Trezor's firmware and software are open-source and widely reviewed, giving transparency and community-backed security. Whether you hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, or many other supported coins and tokens, a Trezor wallet is a practical way to take control of your digital assets.
Unboxing & inspection
When your package arrives, check it for tamper evidence. Inside you should find:
- The Trezor device (Model One or Model T).
- USB cable and quick start leaflet.
- Recovery seed cards for writing down your seed words.
- Stickers and warranty information.
Tip: If the box is opened or appears tampered, do not connect the device — contact official Trezor support immediately.
Step 1 — Visit Trezor.io/Start
Open a trusted browser and type trezor.io/start exactly. This ensures you download official software and avoid phishing sites.
The start page will link you to the latest Trezor Suite application (desktop and web versions) and provide platform-specific installation instructions.
Step 2 — Install Trezor Suite
Trezor Suite is the official application for initializing the device, managing accounts, sending and receiving funds, and updating firmware. Download the correct installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) and run it. The Suite app provides clear on-screen guidance during the whole setup process.
Step 3 — Connect your Trezor device
Connect the Trezor to your computer using the supplied USB cable. If your model has a touchscreen (Model T), follow prompts on-device; otherwise use the hardware buttons to confirm actions. Trezor Suite will detect your device and may prompt you to install or update firmware — allow updates when they originate from the official Suite.
Step 4 — Firmware updates & verification
Firmware updates include security patches and feature improvements. Only install firmware through Trezor Suite and confirm the update directly on the device screen. The device display is the single source of truth — verify firmware fingerprints where displayed and never install firmware from unofficial sources.
Step 5 — Create a new wallet & record your recovery seed
When you create a new wallet, Trezor generates a recovery seed — usually 12 or 24 words depending on settings. This seed is the master key for all accounts on the device. Write these words clearly on the supplied seed cards, and store them offline in at least one secure location. Do not photograph or store the seed in any digital form (no cloud, no phone notes).
- Never share your seed with anyone — not even with "support".
- Store it offline and consider a fire/water-resistant metal backup for durability.
- Use multiple secure locations for redundancy, but minimize exposure risk.
Step 6 — Set a PIN
Protect your device with a PIN. The PIN prevents someone with physical access from using your device. Choose a PIN that is not easily guessable (avoid birthdays or repeated digits). If you forget the PIN, you'll need to recover your wallet using the recovery seed on a new device — so keep both secure.
Optional — Passphrase protection (advanced)
For extra security, enable a passphrase. This behaves as an extra word added to your recovery seed and creates a hidden wallet. It can provide plausible deniability and extra protection, but losing the passphrase means the hidden wallet is irretrievable — use it only if you understand the trade-offs and have a secure method to store the passphrase.
Using Trezor Suite — manage accounts
After setup, add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and many other supported coins and tokens. Trezor Suite presents public receiving addresses, transaction history, and portfolio overviews. Label accounts to keep your holdings organized and use integrated features like account exports or transaction notes for bookkeeping.
Sending & receiving — verification is everything
To receive funds: generate a receiving address in Trezor Suite and verify that the same address appears on your Trezor device screen before sharing it. This prevents malware from altering the address. To send funds: enter recipient and amount in Suite, then confirm all details on your Trezor device before approving. Never approve a transaction with unexpected recipients, amounts, or contract data.
Security best practices
- Always download Trezor Suite from trezor.io.
- Confirm addresses and transaction details on the device, not just on your computer screen.
- Keep firmware and Suite up to date to receive security patches.
- Avoid using public or untrusted computers for high-value transactions.
- Never disclose your recovery seed or PIN to anyone.
Recovering an existing wallet
If you need to restore a wallet, choose the recovery option in Trezor Suite. Enter your seed words using the device interface when prompted — this prevents typing the seed into a potentially compromised computer. If you used a passphrase previously, you'll need it to access the corresponding hidden wallet.
Advanced features
Trezor supports passphrase-protected wallets, integration with third-party apps and wallets, and advanced coin control for UTXO-based assets. Trezor Suite may offer integrations, portfolio tracking, and settings for network fees. Advanced users can explore developer tools and documented APIs, but always prioritize on-device verification for security.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Never store your seed digitally (no photos, cloud notes, or email).
- Don’t follow links from unsolicited emails — always go to trezor.io/start manually.
- Avoid cheap, unbranded USB cables that might malfunction.
- Test small transactions when interacting with a new dApp or service; only then send larger amounts.
Troubleshooting — quick fixes
If your Trezor is not detected, try a different USB port or cable, ensure Trezor Suite is up to date, and unlock the device before connecting. If firmware update fails, restart Suite and your device and retry. For persistent issues, consult official Trezor support and documentation.
Final words — security is a habit
Properly setting up and maintaining your Trezor device gives you control, security, and peace of mind. Guard your recovery seed, use a strong PIN, verify everything on-device, and keep your software up to date. With these practices, your Trezor becomes a powerful, trustworthy cornerstone for long-term crypto custody.
Ready to start? Use the official link below to download Trezor Suite and follow the guided onboarding.
Get started at Trezor.io/Start