How to Set Up Your Trezor Wallet

This page walks you through the secure, step-by-step process to set up a new Trezor hardware wallet. Follow these instructions carefully and always verify that you are using the official site: trezor.io/start. Do not enter your recovery seed into any website or digital device.

Before You Begin

Make sure you have a factory-sealed Trezor device (Model One or Model T) purchased from an official store or authorized reseller. Use a personal, trusted computer (avoid public or shared machines) and a good USB cable that supports data transfer.

Step 1 — Open trezor.io/start

Open your browser and go to trezor.io/start. Bookmark the page to avoid phishing attempts in the future. From here you can download the Trezor Suite desktop app or use the web Suite if available. Always confirm the site uses HTTPS and the certificate is valid.

Go to trezor.io/start

Step 2 — Connect Your Device

Unbox your Trezor and ensure the tamper-evident seal is intact. Connect it to your computer using the USB cable. The Suite will detect the device and prompt you to begin the setup. If the device was opened or looks tampered with, do not proceed—contact the vendor immediately.

Step 3 — Create a New Wallet

Within Trezor Suite choose Create a new wallet. The device will generate a recovery seed (12 or 24 words) — a human-readable list that restores your wallet if the device is lost or damaged. Write these words down in order and store them offline. Preferably use the provided recovery card or a metal backup for fire and water resistance.

Security reminder: Never take a photo of your seed, store it in cloud storage, or type it into any computer. Treat the seed as the single key to your funds.

Step 4 — Set a PIN

Choose a secure PIN on the Trezor device when prompted. The PIN protects against unauthorized use if someone obtains your device. Avoid obvious combinations and consider a length that balances memorability and strength. The device enforces delays after incorrect attempts to slow brute-force attacks.

Step 5 — Optional: Use a Passphrase

For extra security, enable a passphrase (sometimes called a 25th word). This creates a hidden wallet that requires both the seed and the passphrase to access. Use passphrases carefully—if forgotten, the hidden wallet is unrecoverable.

Step 6 — Verify and Update Firmware

After initialization, check the device firmware version and update if the Suite recommends it. Only accept firmware updates from the official Suite. Firmware updates patch security issues and add features—verify the update prompt and only apply trusted updates.

Step 7 — Receive and Send Funds Safely

To receive funds, generate a receiving address in Trezor Suite and verify it on your device screen. When sending, confirm the address and amount on the device. Always review transaction details on the hardware screen to prevent address-substitution attacks from malware on your computer.

Backup & Recovery

Make at least two physical backups of your recovery seed and store them in separate secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box, home safe). Consider using a metal backup plate for durability. Regularly review your storage plan, especially if custody arrangements or trust structures change.

Troubleshooting

If the Suite doesn't detect your Trezor, try another USB cable or port.
Restart the computer or reinstall Trezor Suite from trezor.io/start.
On macOS, allow the app in System Preferences if blocked by Gatekeeper.
For Linux, ensure udev rules are set so non-root users can access the device.

Security Best Practices

Buy devices only from official channels.
Never share your recovery seed or PIN.
Keep firmware and Suite updated from official sources.
Perform large transactions from a checked, secure computer.
Use multisig or passphrases for additional security on large holdings.

Final Checklist

Device purchased sealed from an official source.
Downloaded Trezor Suite from trezor.io/start.
Seed written down and stored offline in multiple locations.
PIN set and optional passphrase considered.
Firmware verified and updated if needed.

This guide is educational and mirrors the setup flow found at trezor.io/start. Always consult the official Trezor documentation for the most current instructions and safety notices.