Trezor — Start: Your step-by-step setup guide

Before you begin — what you'll need

• Your physical Trezor Model (Model One, Model T, or other supported device)
• A computer or smartphone with an up-to-date browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge recommended)
• A USB-C or USB cable supplied with the device (or a USB-A adapter if required)
• A safe place to write and store your recovery seed (pen + recovery card or metal backup)
• Time and a distraction-free environment — security is about attention to detail

Step 1 — Verify your package and device

Before powering on your device, inspect the packaging and tamper-evident seals. Trezor ships devices in secure packaging; if the package shows signs of tampering, contact Trezor support and do not use the device.

Step 2 — Install Trezor Suite (recommended)

Trezor Suite is the official companion app for desktop and offers a secure, audited experience for interacting with your device. Follow prompts on trezor.io/start to download and install the latest version for your operating system.

If you prefer a browser-based experience, the start page will guide you through connecting via the recommended web app while maintaining the same security guarantees.

Step 3 — Initialize your device

During initialization you'll either create a new wallet (generate a recovery seed) or recover an existing wallet from a recovery seed. For new users, choose Create a new wallet.

1. Follow on-screen instructions on Trezor Suite. Confirm the device model and firmware version.
2. Set a device name (optional) and create a PIN. The PIN is required each time you connect the device to a host computer.
3. Your device will generate a recovery seed — typically 12, 18, or 24 words depending on the model and configuration. This seed is the single most important piece of data that protects your funds.

Important: Secure your recovery seed

Write the recovery words in the exact order on the supplied recovery card or use a metal backup for greater durability. Never store the seed digitally (photos, cloud, email). If someone obtains your recovery seed, they can steal your funds.

Step 4 — Confirm seed & finish setup

After recording the seed, the device will ask you to confirm a few words to ensure you wrote them correctly. Once confirmed, Trezor Suite will complete the initialization and the device is ready to use.

Step 5 — Install apps & add accounts

Depending on your crypto holdings, you may want to enable apps or accounts in Trezor Suite (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano). Use the Add account flow to create accounts for each supported blockchain you intend to manage.

Step 6 — Receive your first transaction

To receive crypto, open the corresponding account in Trezor Suite and click Receive. Always verify the receiving address on the Trezor device screen — the address shown in the host application must match the device display. Copy the address securely and provide it to the sender or paste it where required.

Step 7 — Sending crypto

Create a transaction in Trezor Suite, then confirm the amount and recipient. The device will display transaction details; review them carefully. Approve the transaction using the physical buttons or touchscreen (Model T). Transactions can only be confirmed when you physically approve them on the device — this prevents remote attackers from moving funds unnoticed.

Security best practices (must-read)

• Never share your recovery seed, PIN, or device passphrase with anyone.
• Store your recovery seed offline in multiple secure locations if the value of what you protect justifies it (for example, a safe deposit box and a home safe).
• Use a metal backup (e.g., Cryptosteel, Billfodl) if you need fire/water resistance and long-term durability.
• Keep firmware up to date — updates include security improvements. Only apply firmware updates from the official Trezor Suite or trezor.io.
• Consider a passphrase (25th word) for additional security and plausible deniability. Understand the trade-offs and risks before enabling a passphrase.
• Be cautious with public Wi‑Fi when connecting your device — perform sensitive operations on trusted networks when possible.
• Confirm addresses and transaction details on the device screen every time.

Troubleshooting common issues

Firmware & verification

Only install firmware that is offered by the official Trezor Suite at trezor.io/start. During updates, the device will display a fingerprint hash — verify it when prompted. Avoid installing firmware from unknown sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I set up Trezor without connecting to the internet?

Yes. The device itself generates keys offline. However, to interact with networks and broadcast transactions you'll need a host (computer or phone) with internet access. Use air-gapped setups for the highest security level.

What happens if I lose my device?

If you lose the physical device, you can recover your wallet (and funds) on a new Trezor or compatible wallet using your recovery seed. This is why secure storage of the seed is critical.

Is Trezor compatible with MetaMask and other wallets?

Yes. Trezor can be used as a hardware signer with popular wallets like MetaMask, Electrum, and many others. Use the vendor-recommended integration guides available at trezor.io/start.

Can I use one recovery seed for multiple devices?

Yes. The same recovery seed can be used to recover accounts on multiple devices. This can be useful for redundancy, but treat all devices and seeds as equally sensitive.

Advanced topics

Passphrase (hidden wallet)

Advanced users may enable a passphrase to create an extra hidden wallet derived from the recovery seed. A passphrase strengthens security but increases responsibility — losing the passphrase means permanent loss of access to that hidden wallet.

Using HSM or multisig

Trezor devices can be used as part of multisignature setups for enterprise or high-value users. Explore multisig options via compatible wallets like Electrum or Sparrow Wallet and consider hardware security modules (HSMs) for institutional deployments.

Backing up to multiple locations

For high-value holdings, many users keep multiple recovery backups in geographically separated, secure locations (bank safe deposit box, trusted family member, or professional vaulting service). Make sure each backup is protected by appropriate legal and physical safeguards.

Final checklist

• Package intact and verified
• Device initialized using trezor.io/start or Trezor Suite
• Recovery seed written down and stored offline
• PIN created and memorized (or stored in a secure password manager with MFA if business use)
• Firmware up to date
• First receive transaction tested with a small amount

Need more help? Visit the official support center at trezor.io/support for guides, videos, and contact options.