Your ultimate step-by-step guide to safely setting up and using your Trezor hardware wallet
The Trezor hardware wallet is one of the most trusted devices in cryptocurrency security. Designed to keep your private keys offline, Trezor offers a secure gateway to manage your digital assets while protecting you from hacks, phishing, and malware.
Starting your Trezor device means safely initializing it, setting up a recovery seed, and learning the basics of how to operate it in tandem with the official Trezor.io/Start® platform.
This guide will walk you through every step with clear instructions, helpful tips, and important security considerations.
Important: Never share your recovery seed with anyone, and avoid storing it digitally to prevent hacking or theft.
When you receive your Trezor, carefully unbox it and check for the following:
If anything looks suspicious, contact Trezor Support immediately.
Use the USB cable to connect your Trezor device to your computer or compatible smartphone. For the Model T, you may also use USB-C.
Once connected, your device will power on and display a welcome message.
Open your browser and navigate to the official Trezor Start page. This platform allows you to safely initialize your device and install firmware.
Note: Always verify you are on the legitimate website — check for https://
and the domain trezor.io
.
If your device requires a firmware update, Trezor Start will prompt you to install the latest version. Firmware updates improve security and add new features.
Do not unplug the device during this process.
You’ll be given two options:
Choose Create a new wallet if this is your first time.
Your device will display a list of 12, 18, or 24 words (depending on your Trezor model) known as your recovery seed. This is the master key to your funds.
Write these words down carefully, in order, on the included recovery seed card or a secure offline medium.
After writing down, your Trezor may ask you to confirm a few words to ensure you copied them correctly.
To protect against unauthorized use, you’ll set a PIN code on your Trezor device. Use a unique combination that you can remember but others cannot guess easily.
The PIN is required every time you connect the device and manage your funds.
Once your device is initialized and secured, the web platform will recognize your wallet and show your account dashboard.
From here, you can start managing cryptocurrencies — sending, receiving, and checking balances.
Note: Passphrases must be remembered exactly — losing it means losing access to funds in that hidden wallet.