Trezor.io/Start | Official Trezor Wallet Setup Guide

Clean, secure, and step-by-step — HTML presentation format with headings h1–h5.

Overview

This guide walks you through setting up your official Trezor hardware wallet using the Trezor Start flow. It is written as a presentation so you can paste or host it as an onboarding page. Sections include requirements, unboxing, initializing, installing Trezor Suite, security best practices, common troubleshooting, and links to official resources.

What you'll learn

Preparation & Requirements

What you need (h4)

  • A new or factory-reset Trezor device (Model One or Model T).
  • A computer (Windows/macOS/Linux) with a modern browser (Chrome/Edge/Firefox) or Trezor Suite app.
  • USB cable included with your device.
  • Paper and pen for writing down the recovery seed — NEVER store the seed digitally.
  • Stable internet connection for downloading Suite and firmware checks.

Security checklist (h4)

  1. Buy only from official sources — avoid third-party marketplaces that might sell tampered devices.
  2. Check tamper-evident packaging and seal.
  3. Have a private, distraction-free space to write your recovery seed.

Step-by-step Setup (h2)

Step 1 — Connect your Trezor (h3)

Plug your Trezor device into the computer using the supplied cable. If you are using a phone, use a compatible OTG adapter. The device screen will show an official Trezor welcome message.

Step 2 — Open Trezor Start or Trezor Suite (h3)

Visit https://trezor.io/start or download Trezor Suite for a desktop experience. The Start flow launches a secure guided setup that verifies the device and installs firmware if needed.

Step 3 — Install Firmware (if prompted) (h3)

Trezor devices ship with minimal firmware. The setup will ask to install the latest official firmware. Always accept the firmware from the official Trezor site — do not install packages from unknown sources.

Step 4 — Create a new wallet (h3)

Choose Create a new wallet in the Start flow. The device will generate a random recovery seed on the device itself. Write down each word exactly in order.

Seed backup tips (h4)

  • Use the official recovery card or durable metal backup if you want extra resilience.
  • Never photograph or store your seed on any internet-connected device.

Step 5 — Confirm your seed and set a PIN (h3)

After writing the seed, the device prompts you to confirm a few words to ensure you recorded it correctly. Next, choose a PIN directly on the device — the PIN prevents physical attackers from using your device.

PIN best practices (h5)

Use a PIN that's memorable but not obvious. You may opt for a longer numeric code. Do not share your PIN.

Step 6 — Add your first account (h3)

Open Trezor Suite (or the web interface) and follow the prompts to add a Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other account. Trezor supports many coins — check compatibility before sending funds.

Security & Maintenance (h2)

Firmware & software updates (h3)

Keep your device firmware and Trezor Suite updated. Updates include important security fixes. Only apply updates offered through the official Trezor flow.

Advanced options (h3)

  • Passphrase (BIP39) — acts as a 25th word to create hidden wallets. Use carefully: a lost passphrase cannot be recovered.
  • Multisig support — use Trezor as a signer in multisignature setups for increased protection.
Important: If you use a passphrase, store it separately and securely. Do not mix it with your recovery seed.

Troubleshooting & Common Questions (h2)

Device not recognized

If the computer doesn't detect the device, try a different USB cable or port. Avoid USB hubs; connect directly. Reboot the computer if necessary.

I lost my seed — what now?

If the seed is lost and you don't have other backups, access to funds may be irretrievable. For small mistakes, check any safe storage places first. This is why multiple offline backups (paper + metal) are recommended.

Is it safe to buy second-hand?

Buying second-hand is not recommended. Only buy from official vendors or the Trezor Shop to avoid tampered devices.

Checklist before sending funds (h2)

  • Have you updated firmware and Suite?
  • Is the device unlocked and showing the correct account address?
  • Have you tested with a small transfer first?