This short guide walks you through setting up a Trezor hardware wallet at trezor.io/start. You'll get step-by-step instructions, best practices for safety, and tips on integrating with wallets and managing backups. Use the headings (h1–h5) as a clear structure while you follow each slide.
1. Intro & goals — 2. Unboxing — 3. First boot — 4. Firmware & safety — 5. Create wallet
6. Backup seed — 7. PIN & passphrase — 8. Install apps — 9. Sending/receiving — 10. Tips & resources
Verify tamper-evident seals and only use the included cable. Confirm the model and serial number on the box, and do not accept a device with broken seals or unusual markings. Always start directly at trezor.io/start — never follow unsolicited links or QR codes from third parties.
Physical integrity prevents supply-chain tampering. A secure unboxing reduces the risk of compromised devices and unauthorized firmware.
Use the included cable to connect the Trezor to your computer. Visit the official start page and follow on-screen prompts. The device will show instructions — confirm every action on the device screen, never only in software.
Prefer Chromium-based or Firefox browsers and avoid third-party extensions that could interfere with the setup. If prompted, install recommended bridge software or the Trezor Suite application from trusted sources.
The device will ask to install or update firmware. Only allow firmware signed by Trezor. Check the fingerprint when prompted and compare to the official documentation on trezor.io. Avoid installing firmware files from untrusted sources.
Follow any on-screen security checks. The Trezor's screen is your single source of truth — confirm that software prompts match the device display to prevent remote manipulation.
Trezor generates a recovery seed (mnemonic phrase). Write the seed down on the recommended recovery card — never store the seed on a digital device, photo, or cloud storage. The seed is the ultimate backup for wallet recovery.
Record each word in order, and double-check spelling. Trezor will verify the seed by asking you to confirm specific words. Keep your recovery card somewhere secure and consider a bank safe or encrypted physical backup location.
Write multiple copies of your seed, store them in separate secure locations, and consider metal backup plates for durability. Consider distributing copies to trusted contacts using a secure, planned approach — avoid single points of failure.
A passphrase can be used in addition to the seed for a hidden wallet. Treat the passphrase like an additional secret; losing it can lock you out. Document your passphrase plan securely and test recovery procedures in a safe environment.
Choose a PIN that is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. The Trezor will use the PIN to protect device access. Never enter your PIN into a computer; always confirm it directly on the device screen.
Decide whether to enable a passphrase for extra security. Passphrases create distinct wallets; misplacing the passphrase means loss of access to funds tied to that passphrase.
Many currencies require separate apps or integrations. Prefer official Trezor Suite or trusted wallet integrations listed on trezor.io. Keep apps updated, and verify permissions before connecting.
Before moving large balances, send small test transactions to confirm address correctness and expected behavior. This reduces risk while you validate the complete workflow.
Always confirm the destination address on the device screen. Malware may alter addresses in the clipboard or software UI. Use the integrated QR code or manually compare the address displayed on the Trezor with the receiving UI.
Adjust fees according to network conditions and review estimated confirmation times. For large transfers, consider multiple confirmations and split transfers if needed for safety.
Keep firmware and apps updated, never share your seed or passphrase, and use hardware wallets for long-term storage. Consider learning about multi-signature setups for additional redundancy and professional custody options for large holdings.
Trezor Start • Trezor Support • Open in Office (for PPT export)