Trezor Wallet Setup — Trezor.io/start

A practical, secure, and user-friendly setup guide for your Trezor hardware wallet.

Overview — what this guide covers

This page walks you through each step of securely setting up a Trezor device: verifying packaging, initializing (new wallet or recovery), PIN and passphrase options, recording your recovery seed safely, testing transactions, and following best practices for long-term storage.

1

Unbox & verify

Check tamper seals and confirm you purchased from an authorized channel. If the packaging looks altered, stop and contact the seller.

  • Included items: device, cable, recovery card, quickstart leaflet.
  • Tip: Prefer new, unopened devices from official store or verified resellers.
2

Choose your setup method

You can create a new wallet or restore an existing one with a recovery seed. Creating new is recommended for most users buying a new device.

  1. Create a new wallet — generate a fresh recovery seed on the device.
  2. Recover an existing wallet — enter an existing seed securely using the device prompts.
3

Download official software

Use Trezor Suite (desktop or web) from the official Trezor site. Avoid third-party installers. The Suite will verify firmware and guide you through setup.

4

Initialize & verify firmware

When you connect the device, follow the Suite steps. If the Suite requests a firmware update, read release notes and ensure the update is authentic. The Suite and device work together to check attestation.

5

Create a PIN

Set a PIN on the device to prevent accidental use if the device is lost or stolen. The PIN entry uses a randomized keypad to stop screen-loggers and keyloggers.

  • Choose a PIN you can remember but is not guessable.
  • Do not store your PIN with your recovery seed.
6

Record your recovery seed (backup)

The recovery seed (12, 18 or 24 words depending on the model/configuration) is the master backup. Write it down in order, on the provided card or a robust backup plate. Never photograph or store it digitally.

Treat the seed as the keys to your funds. Anyone with it can access your crypto.
  • Use multiple physical copies stored in separate secure locations if needed.
  • Consider metal backup solutions for fire/water resistance.
7

Optional: add a passphrase

A passphrase is an additional secret that creates a hidden wallet on top of your seed. It offers plausible deniability and stronger protection, but if you forget the passphrase you cannot recover those wallets.

Warning: passphrases are powerful but increase operational complexity — document your strategy and store passphrases separately from the seed if you use them.

8

Perform a test transaction

Before moving significant funds, receive a small amount to your new Trezor address and then send it back or to another wallet. Verify that addresses and amounts shown on the device match the host UI.

  1. Create a receiving address and verify it on-device.
  2. Send a small test amount from an exchange or another wallet.
  3. Confirm you can spend the test amount.
9

Long-term storage strategy

Decide how you'll divide funds between "cold" (long-term) and "hot" (spendable) wallets. For large holdings consider multi-signature wallets, multiple devices, or institutional custody solutions.

10

Keep software & firmware updated

Regular updates include security fixes and new coin support. Only update firmware via the official Suite and read release notes before updating large wallets. Verify update prompts on-device.

Security fundamentals explained

Trezor's security model relies on isolation: private keys are generated and stored inside the device and never leave it. The host software (Trezor Suite) only receives public data or signed transactions.

Threats & mitigations

  • Remote malware: cannot extract keys because signing happens on-device. Verify transaction details on the device screen.
  • Physical tampering: buy from authorized sellers and check packaging.
  • Seed exposure: never store seed digitally; consider metal backups and geographically separate copies.

Troubleshooting & common pitfalls

  • Device not recognized: check cable/ports, unlock device, and ensure latest Suite version.
  • Firmware warning: pause and consult official docs if Suite warns about authenticity.
  • Lost seed: if seed is lost and device unavailable, funds cannot be recovered — keep backups safe.
  • Passphrase confusion: keep a secure record of passphrase usage — losing it means losing access to those hidden wallets.

FAQ

Can I set up Trezor without internet?
Yes — you can use Trezor in an air-gapped workflow for maximum security. However the initial firmware verification and some coin activities may be easier with a connected host.
What happens if my Trezor is stolen?
If you have a PIN, it prevents casual access. Restore funds on a new device using your recovery seed. If you used a passphrase, you also need that to recover hidden wallets.
Who should NOT use a hardware wallet?
Users who need instant, frequent micro-transactions and cannot manage physical backups may prefer custodial solutions — but custodial services carry counterparty risk.