Welcome to Trezor.io/start. You have taken the first and most important step towards financial independence. By choosing a hardware wallet, you are moving your digital assets from vulnerable online exchanges to a secure, offline environment that you control. This guide will walk you through the entire setup process, ensuring that your journey into self-custody is smooth and secure.
Why Hardware Wallets Matter
In the world of cryptocurrency, security is paramount. Software wallets and exchange accounts are constantly connected to the internet, making them potential targets for hackers. A hardware wallet like Trezor keeps your private keys—the cryptographic proof of ownership for your assets—offline at all times. Even when connected to an infected computer, your Trezor device is designed to keep your keys isolated and safe.
Security Note
Never digitize your recovery seed. Do not take a photo of it, do not type it into a computer, and do not upload it to the cloud. Your recovery seed should only exist on the physical card provided in your box.
Step 1: Unboxing and Inspection
Before you plug in your device, take a moment to inspect the packaging. Trezor devices come with tamper-evident holographic seals.
- Trezor Model One: Check that the box is glued shut and the hologram is intact.
- Trezor Model T: Ensure the magnetic hologram over the USB-C port is unbroken.
If you suspect the package has been opened or tampered with, do not proceed. Contact Trezor support immediately for a replacement.
Step 2: Installing Trezor Suite
To communicate with your device, you need the official interface:Trezor Suite.
- Navigate to the download section on this page or the official Trezor website.
- Download the version appropriate for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
- Install the application and open it. You can also use the web version, but the desktop application is recommended for enhanced privacy and security.
Step 3: Firmware Installation
Your Trezor device ships without firmware installed. This is a security feature to ensure that the software running on your device is the latest and has not been modified by a middleman.
Connect your device while Trezor Suite is open. The application will detect the device and prompt you to install the latest firmware. Follow the on-screen instructions. During this process, your device screen will light up and display a confirmation message.
Step 4: Creating a New Wallet
Once the firmware is installed, you will be given two options:Create a new wallet or Recover wallet. Since this is a new setup, choose "Create a new wallet".
The Backup Process (Crucial Step): Your device will generate a unique recovery seed—a sequence of 12 to 24 random words. This seed is the master key to your funds.
- Write down every word carefully on the provided recovery seed cards.
- Double-check the spelling and order of the words.
- Store the card in a secure, fire-resistant location.
Step 5: Finalizing Security
After backing up your seed, you will be asked to set a PIN. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access. Choose a strong, unique PIN that you will remember.
Congratulations! Your Trezor is now set up. You can now use Trezor Suite to generate receiving addresses for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other supported assets. Remember, your device is the key to your digital vault—keep it safe.