Trezor.io/Start® | Starting™ Up Your Device

Welcome to Trezor.io/Start® — your official guide to starting up your Trezor hardware wallet. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned crypto user, this step-by-step guide will help you safely initialize your device, set up security features, and start managing your digital assets confidently.

What is a Trezor Hardware Wallet?

Trezor is a trusted brand of hardware wallets designed to securely store your cryptocurrency private keys offline. Unlike software wallets, which are vulnerable to malware or hacking attacks, Trezor devices keep your keys in a secure chip, isolated from the internet, providing maximum security for your crypto holdings.

By starting your Trezor device correctly, you ensure your assets are protected and ready to use with confidence.

What You’ll Need Before Starting

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

Your brand-new Trezor device (Model One or Model Model T)
A computer or smartphone with internet access
The official Trezor Bridge software installed (for desktop users)
A pen and paper for your recovery seed backup (very important!)

Step 1: Unbox and Inspect Your Trezor Device

When you receive your Trezor wallet, carefully unbox it. Ensure the package is sealed and untampered — the device should come in a tamper-evident box. If you see any signs of tampering, do not use the device and contact Trezor support immediately.

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the device’s physical buttons and screen.

Step 2: Connect Your Trezor to Your Computer or Smartphone

Plug the Trezor device into your computer or smartphone via USB cable:

For desktop users, it’s recommended to use the latest Google Chrome, Firefox, or Edge browser.
On smartphones, the Trezor Mobile app supports device connection via USB OTG (On-The-Go) or Bluetooth (depending on model).

Step 3: Visit Trezor.io/Start®

Open your browser and go to https://trezor.io/start. This is the official Trezor onboarding portal where you will be guided through the setup process.

The website will detect your device and prompt you to install the necessary software.

Step 4: Install Trezor Bridge or Trezor Suite

For desktop users, install the Trezor Bridge, which is the communication layer between your device and browser.

Alternatively, you can download the Trezor Suite — the all-in-one app to manage your wallet, accounts, and crypto assets with an intuitive interface.

For mobile users, download the official Trezor Mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Step 5: Initialize Your Trezor Device

The initialization process involves setting up your device for first use.

You’ll have two options:

Create a New Wallet: This option generates a brand-new cryptographic seed (your recovery phrase).
Recover Wallet: Restore an existing wallet using a previously saved recovery seed.

If this is your first time with Trezor, choose Create a New Wallet.

Step 6: Generate Your Recovery Seed

Your recovery seed is the most important part of your wallet. It’s a list of 12 to 24 words that act as the backup of your private keys. Keep this phrase safe and never share it with anyone.

The device will randomly generate your recovery seed.
Write down each word carefully on the provided recovery card.
Double-check the spelling and order of each word.
Store this card in a secure location, separate from your device.

Important: Do not save your recovery seed digitally (e.g., photos, notes apps), as this increases the risk of theft.

Step 7: Confirm Your Recovery Seed

To ensure you have correctly written down the seed, your Trezor device will prompt you to confirm several words randomly.

This step is essential to avoid losing access to your wallet in the future.

Step 8: Set a PIN Code

Trezor allows you to set an additional security layer: a PIN code.

The PIN is entered on your device's screen using a randomized keypad to prevent keyloggers from capturing your code.
Choose a secure and memorable PIN.
Each time you connect your device, you will be prompted to enter this PIN.

Step 9: Explore Trezor Suite or Web Interface

Once your device is set up, you can manage your cryptocurrencies using:

Trezor Suite: The official desktop and web application that supports various coins and tokens.
Compatible Wallets: Trezor supports integration with popular wallets like Electrum, MyEtherWallet, and others.

The interface allows you to:

View account balances
Send and receive cryptocurrencies
Exchange coins via built-in exchanges
Manage device settings and firmware updates

Step 10: Update Firmware Regularly

Security is a continuous process. Trezor regularly releases firmware updates to enhance features and patch vulnerabilities.

The Trezor Suite or web interface will notify you when updates are available.
Always update your device firmware when prompted.
Firmware updates require physical confirmation on the device.

Best Practices for Secure Use

Never share your recovery seed or PIN.
Avoid entering your seed on any computer or phone.
Keep your recovery seed offline and in a secure location.
Enable passphrase protection for an extra layer of security.
Use a dedicated, malware-free device for crypto transactions.
Be wary of phishing sites—always verify you are on official Trezor domains.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Not Recognized

Ensure you use the official Trezor Bridge software.
Try a different USB port or cable.
Restart your computer or smartphone.
Check for browser updates or try a different browser.

Lost Recovery Seed

Unfortunately, without the recovery seed, your wallet cannot be restored.
If you have access to your device and it’s unlocked, immediately generate a new wallet and transfer funds.

PIN Forgotten

If you forget your PIN and enter it incorrectly 16 times, the device will wipe itself.
You must restore using your recovery seed afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use one Trezor device for multiple cryptocurrencies?
A: Yes! Trezor supports over 1000 cryptocurrencies, all manageable from a single device.

Q: Is Trezor compatible with mobile devices?
A: Yes, Trezor Model T supports USB OTG connection with Android devices and works with the Trezor Mobile app.

Q: What happens if I lose my Trezor device?
A: You can restore your wallet on a new Trezor or compatible wallet using your recovery seed.

Q: How secure is my recovery seed?
A: Your recovery seed is the master key to your funds. If someone gains access, they control your crypto. Keep it offline and secure.

Conclusion

Starting your Trezor device is a straightforward yet crucial process that sets the foundation for safe cryptocurrency management. By following this step-by-step guide, you ensure your digital assets are protected with the industry’s leading hardware security.

Remember to always keep your recovery seed safe and never share your PIN or seed with anyone. With your Trezor device ready, you can confidently explore the exciting world of digital currencies.

For more detailed tutorials, visit https://trezor.io/start or reach out to the official Trezor support team.