Starting Up Your Trézor® Device — Official Guide
This guide explains everything you need to know to start up and secure your Trézor® hardware wallet using the official Trezor.io/Start® flow. Follow each step carefully — hardware wallets protect your private keys offline and are the most reliable method to secure cryptocurrency, but they depend on correct setup and recovery practices.
When you first open your Trézor® package, inspect the box for any tamper evidence. Only use the device if packaging appears intact and matches the manufacturer’s photos. Counterfeit or tampered packaging is a common attack vector. Next, connect the Trézor® to a computer you trust and visit the official start page: trezor.io/start. Do not follow links from unverified emails or third‑party ads. Typing the URL directly or using a saved bookmark reduces the risk of phishing.
On the official start page the Trezor Suite (or web setup) will guide you through firmware verification, device initialization, and optional firmware updates. At no point should you disclose your recovery seed, PIN, or passphrase to anyone — Trézor employees will never ask for these. During initialization the device will generate a recovery seed: a series of words that fully restore your wallet if the device is lost or damaged. Write this seed down by hand on the included recovery card; do not store it digitally. Storing your seed on a connected device or in a photo invites theft.
After recording the recovery seed, set a PIN code on the device. A PIN prevents casual physical access to your wallet. Choose a PIN you can remember but that is not easily guessable; avoid reusing passwords from other services. When prompted, confirm the PIN on the Trézor® hardware itself — this protects against malware on your computer that could intercept inputs.
For users who want an additional layer of protection, Trézor® supports a passphrase (also called a 25th word). A passphrase is optional and acts as a secret extension to your recovery seed. If you use a passphrase, understand that losing it is equivalent to losing access to funds: neither the manufacturer nor anyone else can recover a forgotten passphrase. Consider using a passphrase only if you can reliably store it offline and privately.
Once your device is initialized you can install and use Trezor Suite (desktop) or connect through the official browser-based interface to manage accounts. Always verify the software you install is from the official domain and is current. Keep your firmware and software updated, but only install updates when you initiated them and after verifying authenticity on the device’s screen. Firmware updates will show on‑device notices and require your physical confirmation before proceeding.
Practical tips: keep at least two copies of your recovery seed in separate secure locations (e.g., a safe and a safety deposit box) and consider steel backup solutions for fire and water resistance. Never share your recovery seed in any form. Beware of common social engineering attacks: do not accept remote help that requires exposing your seed or PIN, and treat unexpected messages or offers about recovery or support with extreme caution.
If you suspect your seed or PIN has been compromised, move your assets immediately to a new wallet with a freshly generated seed — do this only from a trusted device and network. If you lose your Trézor® device but still possess the recovery seed, you can restore a new Trézor® or compatible wallet to regain access to funds.
Finally, remember that device safety is an ongoing habit: keep software updated, verify links and downloads, and store recovery information offline and physically secure. Following these clear, consistent steps will maximize the security benefits of using a Trézor® hardware wallet and minimize the risk of accidental loss or theft.