Trezor.io/Start® | Starting Up Your Device | Trezor®
Overview
This presentation covers the essentials for safely starting up a Trezor device: unpacking, hardware checks, connecting to the official start page, generating or restoring a seed, creating a PIN, and verifying recovery steps. Follow each section carefully — security is a process, not a single action.
What you’ll need
- Your Trezor device and the original USB cable or a high-quality cable.
- A secure, private workspace with no cameras or aggressive background noise.
- Access to the official Trezor start site: trezor.io/start.
- A separate notebook for writing the recovery seed (never store the seed digitally).
Step 1 — Unboxing & hardware check
Inspect the seal and packaging. Trezor devices ship with tamper-evident elements; if something looks altered, stop and contact Trezor support. Ensure the device boots and shows the Trezor logo on its screen before proceeding.
Power & connect
Connect the device using a trusted cable to your computer. On first boot, the screen will prompt you to visit the official start page. Always type the URL into your browser yourself (https://trezor.io/start) or click a verified bookmark — never follow links from unverified emails.
Step 2 — Official start flow
The site will detect your device and guide you through a sequence: firmware check, device naming, and setup type (new device or restore). Confirm firmware authenticity when prompted — the device screen shows a fingerprint or code you verify with the website.
Firmware and authenticity
Only accept firmware updates from the official flow. The device and website use cryptographic signatures to ensure authenticity. If anything looks off, cancel the process and contact support.
Step 3 — Create PIN & passphrase
Set a PIN
Choose a PIN length you can remember but that’s not trivial. The PIN is entered using the device screen layout, protecting against keyloggers. Do not store your PIN in a file or mobile note.
Optional passphrase
A passphrase adds an extra layer that creates a hidden wallet. Use it only if you understand how it works — losing the passphrase means permanently losing access to that wallet. Treat a passphrase like a second, critical secret.
Step 4 — Seed generation & backup
Trezor will generate a recovery seed — usually 12, 18, or 24 words. Write the words down in order, on the supplied card or a dedicated recovery sheet. Verify each word as required. Never take photos of the seed or copy it into keystroke-log-sensitive devices.
Seed safety tips
- Store the written seed in at least two geographically separate secure places (e.g., safe deposit box + home safe).
- Consider using metal backup solutions for fire/water durability.
- Never share your seed with anyone — not even "support" — support will never ask for it.
Step 5 — Final checks & using your wallet
After setup, test by receiving a small amount of crypto to verify address and transaction flow. Use the official Trezor Suite or web interface as directed by the start page. Keep firmware up to date but follow authenticity checks on every update.
Troubleshooting basics
If the device fails to boot, shows an unexpected prompt, or the website claims mismatched fingerprints, disconnect and reach out to official Trezor support. Avoid third-party firmware or unverified tools.
Quick security checklist
- Use the official start page (https://trezor.io/start).
- Verify firmware authenticity on device screen.
- Choose a strong PIN and consider a passphrase only if you fully understand it.
- Write your recovery seed on paper or metal; never store it digitally.
- Test with a small transaction first.
10 Official & helpful links
Closing notes
Starting your Trezor securely requires attention to detail and respect for the recovery process. Treat setup as a security ritual: verify, record, and protect. With careful setup, your hardware wallet will greatly reduce risk and help you control your private keys safely for years to come.