Trezor® — Start Up Your Device

A concise, step-by-step quick start guide to safely set up your Trezor hardware wallet.

Before you start

Make sure you ordered the device from the official Trezor store or an authorized reseller. Prepare a clean, private workspace and have a pen and the included recovery card ready. Use a trusted computer or smartphone with an up-to-date browser.

Warning: Never enter your recovery seed on a computer or phone. Trezor will show the seed on the device screen only.

Unboxing & first steps

Inspect packaging: Check tamper-evident seals and verify the serial number matches the packaging.
Connect device: Use the supplied USB cable. Connect Trezor to your computer or mobile device. The device screen will display a welcome message.
Device check: Confirm the authenticity check shown on-device matches Trčzor Suite when prompted. Always confirm on the device itself.
Firmware: Install official firmware updates through Trezor Suite when requested; updates are signed and verified.
Create PIN: Choose a secure PIN (at least 6 digits recommended) — the PIN is entered using the device's screen for protection against malware.

Recovery seed — the single most important step

The recovery seed is the master key to your wallet. If the device is lost, stolen, or damaged, the seed restores access to your funds. Treat it as the highest-value secret you own.

How it's presented

Trezor displays a 12-, 18-, or 24-word mnemonic on the device screen. Write each word down in the exact order shown. Do not type it into any online service or take photos.

Recording and storing

Use the supplied recovery card or a durable metal backup plate for long-term protection.
Write clearly and double-check the spelling and order. Store copies in separate secure locations (e.g., safe, safety deposit box).
Consider fireproof and waterproof storage for physical backups.

Verification

After recording, Trezor will ask you to confirm certain words to verify the backup. Complete verification immediately to ensure accuracy.

Optional passphrase

Trezor supports an optional passphrase that creates hidden wallets. Only use this if you understand the risks: a forgotten passphrase makes funds unrecoverable even with the seed.

Connect to Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is the official interface for account management, firmware, and transactions. Download the desktop app from the official site or use the official web app.

Open Trezor Suite and follow on-screen instructions to pair and authenticate the device.
Add the cryptocurrency accounts you want to use (Bitcoin, Ethereum, tokens).
Send a small test transaction after setup to verify addresses and workflow.

Always verify transaction details on the device display before approving — this prevents malware on the connected computer from changing recipients or amounts.

Security best practices

Keep physical security: Store your device and seed in secure, separate places. Limit who knows about your holdings.
Never share your seed: Trezor support will never ask for your full recovery seed or PIN.
Beware phishing: Always check domain names and download software only from the official Trezor website.
Firmware & software: Keep Trezor Suite and your device firmware up to date via official channels.
Backups & redundancy: Keep multiple, geographically separated backups of your seed. Use durable backups for long-term safety.

Troubleshooting — quick fixes

Device not detected: Try a different USB port or cable and ensure Trezor Suite is running. Reboot the computer if needed.
Firmware update failed: Reconnect and follow the Suite's recovery instructions. Do not share your seed; follow official app guidance.
Forgot PIN: Reset the device and restore from your seed on the same or a new Trezor.
Seed compromised: Move funds to a new wallet with a new seed immediately and update backups.

FAQ

Can I use Trezor on mobile?: Yes. Some phones support Trezor via USB OTG. Check compatibility and use official mobile instructions.
What if my device is lost?: Restore the wallet using your recovery seed on a new Trezor or compatible wallet.
Are third-party wallets compatible?: Many BIP-compatible wallets can restore from the seed; only use trusted software and understand privacy/security trade-offs.