Trezor.io/Start | Starting® Up® Your® Device®

A concise, step-by-step introduction — secure setup, key best practices, and resources (designed for slide or single-page presentation).

Introduction

What is a Trezor hardware wallet? (quick)

A Trezor device is a dedicated hardware wallet that stores private keys offline and signs transactions in a secure environment. It reduces exposure to malware and phishing by keeping critical secrets off your computer and online accounts.

Why this matters: protecting private keys prevents loss of funds to hacks and accidental exposure.

Before you start

Unboxing & checklist

What to have ready

  • New Trezor device (Model One/Model T/Safe series)
  • Computer with USB, or USB-C adapter for mobile
  • Pen and secure paper for the recovery seed (do not photograph)
  • Stable internet connection only for downloading Trezor Suite — verify official site.

Tip: Do not set up on public/shared computers; use your personal device.

Step-by-step setup

1

Connect & visit trezor.io/start

Plug your Trezor into your computer. Open your browser and go to trezor.io/start. Follow the official prompts to download Trezor Suite and begin initialization.

2

Install firmware & verify

Install the latest firmware when prompted and accept the device authentication checks. This verifies your device is genuine and ready.

3

Create PIN & backup

Set a strong PIN on the device. Write your recovery seed on paper (the device will display it). Store the seed offline, ideally in more than one secure physical location.

Security best practices

Do

  • Keep firmware up to date through official channels.
  • Never share your recovery seed or type it into a website.
  • Use a passphrase only if you understand the risks and recovery implications.
Don't
  • Do not enter your seed on a computer or phone.
  • Avoid screenshots or photos of the seed.

Recovery & emergencies

If your Trezor is lost or damaged, you can recover access using the recovery seed on any compatible device. Test your recovery plan in a low-risk simulation so you know the steps without pressure.

Important: Keep seed private — anyone with it can access funds.

Trezor Suite & daily use

Trezor Suite is the recommended app for managing accounts, sending/receiving coins, and viewing balances. It provides a clean interface and transaction history while keeping signing operations on the hardware device.

Use Suite for coin management, firmware updates, and customization.

Common pitfalls to avoid

  1. Following links from emails or social media — always type trezor.io/start or use an official bookmark.
  2. Using unofficial apps or third-party installers.
  3. Neglecting firmware updates that patch security issues.

Advanced tips

Passphrases, multi-sig, and hardware hygiene

Consider a passphrase for enhanced privacy and multi-signature wallets for shared custody. Keep your device physically secure and inspect packaging for tampering before first use.

Resources & links

Official resources, guides and help are critical — bookmark them.

Official setup: trezor.io/start

Wrap up

Setting up a Trezor device is straightforward but requires careful handling of recovery credentials and device authenticity. Spend a few minutes following official steps, and you’ll have a far more secure foundation for holding crypto.

Estimated setup time: ~15 minutes for first-time initialization and backup.