How to Set Up Your Trezor™ Hardware Wallet | Official Getting Started Guide

Welcome to the official Trezor™ hardware wallet setup guide. This step-by-step tutorial helps you set up your device safely, create your backup seed, and start managing your crypto securely. Follow the process carefully to ensure complete protection of your digital assets.

1. Introduction to Trezor Hardware Wallets

The Trezor™ hardware wallet is one of the most trusted tools for securely storing cryptocurrencies. It keeps your private keys offline, ensuring your funds remain protected even if your computer or smartphone is compromised. Trezor supports popular coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many others, allowing you to manage them all in one place via the Trezor Suite app.

Quick Tip: Always use trezor.io/start to begin setup. Avoid using search engines to find setup links — scammers often create fake sites.

2. What You Need Before You Begin

  • Your new Trezor hardware wallet (Model One or Model T).
  • A computer or mobile device with an internet connection.
  • The official USB cable provided in your box.
  • A pen and the included recovery seed card.
  • A quiet environment where you can write down your recovery words safely.
Security Note: Only buy Trezor devices from the official Trezor Shop or verified resellers. Do not use pre-owned or third-party-modified wallets.

3. Connecting Your Trezor for the First Time

  1. Unbox your Trezor and inspect it. Make sure the holographic seal is intact and there are no signs of tampering.
  2. Plug your Trezor into your computer using the supplied USB cable.
  3. Open your browser and go to trezor.io/start.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install Trezor Suite for your operating system.
  5. Launch Trezor Suite and connect your device. It should detect your Trezor automatically.
Note: You can also use the web-based Trezor Suite app if you prefer not to install software, but the desktop version is recommended for better security and privacy.

4. Installing Firmware

When you first connect your new Trezor device, it will prompt you to install the latest official firmware. Firmware ensures your device runs securely and reliably.

  1. Click “Install Firmware” in Trezor Suite.
  2. Wait for the process to complete — do not disconnect the device during installation.
  3. Once done, confirm the firmware signature displayed on your device screen matches the one shown in Trezor Suite.
Keep firmware up to date. Updates often include security improvements and new coin support.

5. Creating a New Wallet

After installing the firmware, you’ll be asked to create a wallet. If you’re new to Trezor, choose Create new wallet.

  1. Click Create new wallet in Trezor Suite.
  2. Confirm on your device by pressing the button when prompted.
  3. Once confirmed, your new wallet is generated securely inside the Trezor.
Warning: Never create or recover a wallet on a website other than trezor.io/start. Fake recovery sites will steal your funds.

6. Backing Up Your Recovery Seed

The most important step in securing your Trezor wallet is writing down your recovery seed — a series of 12, 18, or 24 words shown on your Trezor device screen.

  1. Write each word clearly on the recovery seed card provided.
  2. Check the spelling carefully and ensure the words are in the exact order displayed.
  3. Confirm each word on your Trezor device when prompted.
  4. Store the card in a secure, offline place — never save it digitally.
For additional protection, consider storing your recovery seed in two separate secure locations, such as a fireproof safe and a safety deposit box.

7. Setting Up a PIN

The PIN code protects your Trezor from unauthorized access. You’ll be asked to set it during setup.

  1. When prompted, choose Set PIN in Trezor Suite.
  2. Your device will show a randomized number grid.
  3. Use this grid to enter your chosen PIN via your computer. The numbers’ positions change each time for security.
  4. Re-enter the PIN to confirm it.
Recommendation: Use a strong PIN that’s memorable to you but hard to guess. Avoid sequences like 1111 or 1234.

8. Understanding Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is your control panel for managing your crypto assets. It connects directly with your Trezor device, ensuring private keys never leave it.

  • Accounts: View balances and manage multiple cryptocurrencies.
  • Send & Receive: Transfer funds securely with on-device confirmation.
  • Portfolio: Get a complete overview of your total crypto holdings.
  • Security tab: Check device health, firmware version, and backup status.
You can enable Tor Mode in Trezor Suite for extra privacy when managing your funds.

9. Receiving Cryptocurrency

Once your wallet is set up, you can receive funds into your Trezor account.

  1. Open Trezor Suite and select your desired account.
  2. Click Receive and generate a receiving address.
  3. Verify the address shown on your Trezor device screen matches the one on your computer.
  4. Copy the verified address and share it with the sender.
Always verify the address on your device screen. Malware on computers can modify clipboard addresses.

10. Sending Cryptocurrency

To send crypto from your Trezor wallet:

  1. Select the account and click Send.
  2. Enter the recipient’s address and the amount you wish to send.
  3. Review all details carefully on your computer screen.
  4. Confirm the transaction on your Trezor device by pressing the confirmation button.
For extra caution, try sending a small test transaction first, especially when transferring large amounts.

11. Using Passphrase Protection (Optional)

For advanced security, you can enable passphrase protection. This feature adds an extra word or phrase to your recovery seed, creating a hidden wallet accessible only with that passphrase.

Important: If you forget your passphrase, you will lose access to that hidden wallet permanently. Use this feature only if you fully understand how it works.

12. Updating Firmware Regularly

Firmware updates fix bugs, improve performance, and enhance security. Always install updates from official sources only.

  1. Open Trezor Suite and connect your device.
  2. If a new update is available, follow the prompts to install it.
  3. Confirm the firmware authenticity on your device’s screen before approving.

13. Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable or port, or restart Trezor Suite.
  • Forgot PIN: Reset your device and restore from your recovery seed.
  • Seed lost: If you’ve lost your recovery seed, move funds to a new wallet immediately.
  • Firmware failed: Retry the update or contact official Trezor Support.

14. Security Best Practices

  • Keep your recovery seed offline at all times.
  • Never share your seed, PIN, or passphrase with anyone.
  • Verify URLs before entering sensitive information.
  • Disconnect your Trezor when not actively using it.
  • Only use official Trezor Suite or supported integrations.
Trezor Support will never ask for your recovery seed or full PIN. If someone does, it’s a scam.

15. Final Checklist

  • ✅ Firmware installed and up-to-date.
  • ✅ Recovery seed written and safely stored.
  • ✅ PIN set and tested.
  • ✅ Device verified as authentic.
  • ✅ You’ve practiced sending and receiving transactions.

Congratulations! Your Trezor hardware wallet is fully set up and ready to protect your digital assets for years to come.

For ongoing support, troubleshooting, and firmware releases, visit the official Trezor Support Center. Always keep your recovery seed private and never enter it online.

© 2025 Trezor™ — Protecting your digital freedom.