Trezor Setup Guide | Get Started with Your Hardware Wallet

Welcome to the official setup portal for Trezor hardware wallets. This comprehensive guide will walk you through unboxing, initializing, and securing your new Trezor device. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your cryptocurrency investments receive the highest level of security available.

https://trezor.io/static/images/start/device-hero.png

Why Proper Setup Matters

Your Trezor hardware wallet represents the gold standard in cryptocurrency security, but its effectiveness depends entirely on proper initialization. This process creates what we call the "Root of Trust" - a secure foundation where your private keys are generated offline, never exposed to internet-connected devices, and remain under your exclusive control.

Critical Principle: During this entire setup, your recovery seed (the 12-24 word backup phrase) will only appear on your Trezor device's screen. Never enter it anywhere else.

Phase 1: Preparation & Unboxing

What's in Your Trezor Box:

Trezor Model One or Trezor Model T device
USB-C charging/data cable
Recovery seed cards (2x)
Trezor stickers
Getting started guide
Lanyard (Model T only)

Before You Begin:

Verify Authenticity: Check the holographic seal on your device packaging. If it appears tampered with, contact support immediately.
Download Official Software: Only use Trezor Suite, our dedicated desktop application available at suite.trezor.io
Prepare Your Environment: Ensure you have:
- 30 minutes of uninterrupted time
- A secure, private location
- A pen (not pencil) for writing your recovery seed

Security Alert:

❌ Never purchase Trezor devices from unofficial marketplaces
❌ Never use firmware from unofficial sources
❌ Never share your recovery seed with anyone, including Trezor staff

Phase 2: Initial Device Setup

Step 1: Connect Your Trezor

Connect your Trezor to your computer using the supplied USB cable
Open Trezor Suite (downloaded from suite.trezor.io)
The application will automatically detect your device

Step 2: Install Firmware

Your new device requires firmware installation
Trezor Suite will guide you through this process
Always install the latest firmware for optimal security and feature support
The installation takes approximately 2-3 minutes

Step 3: Create Your Backup (Most Important Step)

This step generates your recovery seed - the master key to all your cryptocurrencies.

How It Works:

Your Trezor device generates random entropy using its secure element
This creates a unique 12, 18, or 24-word mnemonic phrase (recovery seed)
The phrase appears only on your Trezor's display

Backup Best Practices:

Write each word clearly on the provided recovery seed cards
Store them in separate, secure locations
Consider using a cryptosteel or other fire/water-proof solution for long-term storage
Never digitize your seed (no photos, cloud storage, or text files)

Step 4: Verify Your Backup

Trezor Suite will ask you to re-enter select words from your recovery seed. This ensures:

You've recorded the words correctly
You understand the recovery process
Your backup is complete and accurate

Phase 3: Personalize Your Security

Setting Your PIN

Your PIN protects against physical access to your device.

Trezor's Unique Security Feature:

The PIN entry screen randomizes number positions
This prevents observers from learning your PIN based on finger movements
Choose a PIN that's memorable but not easily guessed

PIN Recovery: If you forget your PIN, you can wipe the device and restore using your recovery seed.

Optional: Enable Passphrase Protection

For advanced users seeking additional security:

Creates a "hidden wallet" within your device
Functions as a 25th word to your recovery seed
Adds protection even if someone discovers your physical seed backup
Can be enabled in Trezor Suite settings after initial setup

Phase 4: Using Your Trezor

Navigating Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite provides a unified interface for managing 1,000+ cryptocurrencies:

Dashboard: Portfolio overview and balance tracking
Accounts: Individual cryptocurrency wallets
Send/Receive: Transaction interfaces with address verification
Exchange: Built-in trading with partner providers
Settings: Device management and security preferences

Your First Transaction

To Receive Funds:

Select the cryptocurrency account in Trezor Suite
Click "Receive"
Verify the receiving address on your Trezor screen
Share the address or QR code with the sender

To Send Funds:

Click "Send" in your desired account
Enter recipient address and amount
Verify all transaction details on your Trezor screen
Physically confirm the transaction by pressing the button on your device

Advanced Features & Next Steps

Explore Additional Security:

Shamir Backup: Split your recovery seed into multiple shares (Trezor Model T only)
Multisignature Wallets: Require multiple devices to authorize transactions
U2F/WebAuthn: Use your Trezor for two-factor authentication on supported websites

Mobile Companion App:

Use your Trezor with Android devices via USB-OTG
Coming soon: Enhanced mobile functionality with Trezor Suite Lite

Third-Party Integrations:

Your Trezor works with:

MetaMask (Ethereum and EVM chains)
Electrum (Bitcoin)
Exodus (Multi-coin interface)
And dozens of other compatible wallets

Maintenance & Updates

Regular Security Practices:

Check for firmware updates monthly
Never ignore security notifications in Trezor Suite
Keep your recovery seed storage locations secure
Consider periodic "fire drills" to practice recovery

Traveling with Your Trezor:

Your recovery seed should never travel with your device
Use a passphrase for additional travel security
Be aware of border security regulations in your jurisdiction

Need Assistance?

Official Support Channels:

Knowledge Base: trezor.io/support
User Forum: forum.trezor.io
Ticket System: Via Trezor Suite application
Social Media: @Trezor on Twitter for announcements

Emergency Resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What happens if I lose both my Trezor AND my recovery seed?

Unfortunately, cryptocurrency holdings secured by a lost recovery seed are permanently inaccessible. This is a fundamental feature of decentralized systems—there is no central authority that can restore or reset your credentials. We recommend storing multiple copies of your recovery seed in geographically separate, secure locations.

Q2: Can I use one recovery seed for multiple Trezor devices?

Yes. You can restore the same recovery seed onto multiple Trezor devices, and they will all access the same wallets. This is useful for having a backup device or for sharing wallet access between family members (with appropriate security considerations).

Q3: Is my Trezor compatible with [specific cryptocurrency]?

Trezor supports over 1,000 cryptocurrencies through Trezor Suite and third-party wallet interfaces. Check our Coin Support page for the most current list. Most new assets are added via firmware updates, which are free and easy to install.

Q4: How often should I update my Trezor firmware?

We recommend installing firmware updates as they become available. Each update includes security enhancements, new features, and additional coin support. Trezor Suite will notify you when updates are available. The update process preserves your wallet contents and typically takes less than 5 minutes.

Q5: What's the difference between Trezor Model One and Model T?

The Model T features a touchscreen, Shamir Backup capabilities, supports more coin types natively, and has a microSD slot for additional security features. The Model One uses a two-button interface and covers all major cryptocurrencies. Both provide identical security for private key storage.

Q6: Can governments or law enforcement access my Trezor?

No. Trezor devices do not have backdoors. Your PIN and recovery seed are known only to you. If a device is seized, the PIN protection and optional passphrase prevent unauthorized access. However, always comply with local laws regarding reporting and taxation of cryptocurrency holdings.

Final Security Reminder: You are now your own bank. This grants you unprecedented financial sovereignty but also requires personal responsibility. Your Trezor provides the tools for security, but their effectiveness depends on your diligent implementation.

Welcome to true self-custody. Welcome to Trezor.