Starting® Up Your Device® — Initialize with Confidence
Welcome to Trezor Start
You’ve got your Trezor hardware wallet. Now begins the journey: the first moments of setup define security and peace of mind. Trezor.io/Start® is your official guided path to bring your device online — safely, smoothly, and with your control intact.
This page walks you step‑by‑step, gives you technical clarity, and instills confidence in each click and confirmation. Let’s begin.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need
Your Trezor device (model One, T, or newer).
A reliable USB cable (data + power). Avoid unknown or damaged cables.
A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) with a modern browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Brave).
Internet connection (for downloading software and firmware updates).
Paper and pen (or a durable backup medium) for writing your recovery seed.
Pro tip: Make sure you are in a **private, distraction‑free** environment. No cameras, no phones photos, no screenshots. Your backup seed belongs only to you.
Setup & Initialization: Step‑by‑Step
Download Trezor Suite — Visit trezor.io/start and download the desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) or web version. Always verify you are on the official domain.
Install & Launch — Run the installer; open the application. Choose language, accept terms, and allow necessary permissions.
Connect Your Device — Plug in your Trezor device via USB. The Suite app should detect it. If not, ensure Bridge or required drivers are installed.
Initialize Device — Choose “Create new wallet” or “Recover existing wallet.” If new, the device will generate your recovery seed.
Write Recovery Seed — The device displays 12 or 24 words (depending on model). Write them down in order on paper or a certified backup plate. Confirm them back on the device.
Set a PIN — Choose a memorable but strong PIN on the Trezor’s own screen. The device will scramble digits to thwart shoulder‑surfing.
Install Firmware — If prompted, update to the latest firmware via the Suite. Accept and let the device install. Verify device integrity afterward.
Unlock & Add Accounts — Once your device is initialized, unlock it in Suite. Add your cryptocurrency accounts (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
Test a Small Transaction — Send or receive a small test amount. Approve on device display. This ensures everything works end‑to‑end.
Flow Diagram (Pseudo‑Logic)
start → downloadSuite() → connectDevice() → detectDevice() →
if (device.new) then initializeNew() else recoverExisting();
showSeedToUser(); userWritesSeed(); device.verifySeed();
device.setPIN();
if (firmwareOutdated) then updateFirmware();
unlockDevice(); addAccounts();
userSendReceiveTest();
Action
Where It Happens
What You Must Confirm
Seed Display
On Trezor screen
Words match those you wrote down
PIN Setup
On‑device only
PIN digits in scrambled layout
Firmware Update
Via Suite → device
Device authentic signature, verify checksums
Transaction Approval
Device screen
Address, amount, fees exactly shown
Security Considerations & Best Practices
Never input your recovery seed into software, websites, or take photos of it — it is the ultimate key to your assets.
Always confirm transactions on your Trezor’s built‑in display — never rely on what your computer shows alone.
Keep your device’s firmware and the Suite software up to date — security patches matter.
Store backups (seed) in at least two separate secure locations (fireproof safe, bank deposit box, etc.).
If your device is lost or damaged, recover using your seed only; Trezor, or any service, will never ask you to send your seed to them.
Be cautious of phishing sites — always type or bookmark “trezor.io” and do not rely on random links in emails or messages.
Warning: If someone gains your recovery seed and passphrase (if used), they can access your funds without you ever knowing. Never share them under any circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have an existing wallet and want to move to Trezor?
Choose the “Recover existing wallet” option during setup and input your seed phrase from the old wallet. You will regain access on Trezor. But only input your seed into the Trezor device itself, never into untrusted software.
How many words is the recovery seed?
Depending on the device and configuration, Trezor uses 12, 18, or 24 word seeds. Newer models often default to 24 words for enhanced security.
Can I change my PIN later?
Yes. In Trezor Suite’s settings you can change your PIN. You will confirm it on device. The old PIN is discarded.
What if I lose my Trezor device?
Use your written recovery seed to restore access on a new Trezor device (or compatible wallet). Always keep your seed secure — it is your only fallback.
Is the device safe to connect to any computer?
The Trezor is designed so that private keys never leave the device. Even if the computer is compromised, an attacker cannot extract your keys. But be careful with phishing, malware, and fake software.
Do I need Bridge or a browser extension?
For web-based interactions (e.g. Trezor Suite web, Web3 apps), Trezor Bridge or equivalent middleware is required. Suite desktop version may connect directly, depending on OS. Always follow official guidance.