Why Trezor & What to Expect
Trezor hardware wallets provide offline key storage (cold storage) so your private keys never leave the device. They are designed to be auditable, transparent, and resilient — ideal for anyone who wants to hold their crypto securely and independently.
At Trezor.io/start you will find the core steps for authenticating your device, creating a secure recovery seed, installing companion software, and using your Trezor to sign transactions safely.
Before You Begin
- Use a private, trusted computer for the initial setup.
- Verify package integrity — ensure seals are intact.
- Have a pen and paper ready for recording the recovery seed (do not use digital notes).
- Turn off screen recording, and avoid public Wi-Fi during setup.
Step-by-Step Setup Overview
1. Power On & Connect
Plug the device into your computer using the supplied cable; follow the on-device prompts to begin initialization. The device itself is the authoritative source for all setup instructions.
2. Install Companion Software
Install the official Trezor management application on your computer. This software communicates with the device for firmware updates and account management; always use the official, verified application sources.
3. Create a New Wallet
Select the option to create a new wallet. Your Trezor will generate a recovery seed (typically 12–24 words) — this seed is the sole means to restore your wallet.
4. Record the Recovery Seed
Write down the exact words in the correct order on the supplied seed card or paper. Store them offline, in at least two secure physical locations. Never photograph or store the seed digitally.
5. Set a PIN
Choose a PIN to protect device access. The PIN prevents casual access if the device is lost or stolen; do not choose easily guessed sequences.
6. Confirm & Update Firmware
Confirm the device status and install any recommended firmware updates through the companion app. Firmware integrity checks protect you from tampered or counterfeit code.
Using Your Trezor Safely
Every transaction made through your Trezor requires on-device confirmation — the device displays the exact destination address and amounts so you can always verify what you are signing. This physical confirmation is a foundational security feature.
Transaction Verification
- Read and confirm the destination address and amount on the device screen before approving.
- Do not approve transactions you did not initiate.
- When integrating third-party apps, validate addresses on the hardware device, not the app.
Recovery Seed — The Master Key
Your recovery seed restores access if the hardware is lost or damaged. Treat it as the most sensitive information you own:
- Write the seed physically and store it offline.
- Use fireproof or tamper-resistant storage if available.
- Do not enter the seed into websites or apps.
- Consider advanced backups (metal seed plates) for long-term durability.
Advanced Security Recommendations
- Enable passphrase protection for hidden wallets if you require plausible deniability.
- Keep firmware and companion software up to date and verify signatures where applicable.
- Use multiple physical seed backups stored in separate secure locations.
- If you manage large holdings, consider multi-signature schemes in addition to hardware wallets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I recover my wallet if my device is lost?
- Yes — using your recovery seed phrase you can restore access to your funds on any compatible device.
- Should I store my seed digitally?
- No. Storing seeds digitally increases risk of theft through malware, breaches, or cloud exposures. Always use offline, physical storage.
- What if I forgot my PIN?
- If you forget your PIN, the device will require a factory reset and recovery using your seed phrase. Without the seed, funds cannot be recovered.
- How often should I update firmware?
- Install firmware updates when released to benefit from security patches and improvements — but verify update authenticity before applying.