Trézor.io/Start® | Starting Up Your Device – Trézor®

In the world of cryptocurrency, self-custody is a principle that separates those who truly own their digital assets from those who rely on third parties. Owning a hardware wallet like the Trézor® is a step toward securing your financial independence. If you’ve just purchased a Trézor Model One or Trézor Model T, congratulations—you now own one of the most trusted crypto security tools available.

To get the most out of your device, it's crucial to start correctly. The official onboarding process begins at Trézor.io/Start®, where users are guided through device setup, security fundamentals, and wallet access using Trézor Suite—the official crypto management platform.

This guide will walk you through the complete startup process for your Trézor hardware wallet, covering both technical steps and critical security tips.

Why Trézor?

Trézor, developed by SatoshiLabs, was the world’s first hardware wallet. It allows users to securely store their private keys offline—far from the reach of hackers, malware, and phishing scams. Unlike custodial wallets or centralized exchanges, Trézor gives you full control over your crypto, meaning only you hold the keys to your assets.

With Trézor, your private keys never leave the device. Every transaction must be physically confirmed on your device screen, making unauthorized access virtually impossible.

What You Need to Get Started

Before beginning the setup process, ensure you have the following:

• A Trézor Model One or Trézor Model T
• A USB cable (included with your device)
• A computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux
• A pen to write down your recovery seed
• A safe space, free from distractions or prying eyes

Do not open or connect your Trézor until you’re ready to follow official instructions. Always verify the packaging is intact and genuine.

Step 1: Unboxing and Device Inspection

Your Trézor box should be factory-sealed with tamper-proof tape or shrink wrap. Inspect it carefully. If anything looks suspicious—broken seal, unusual contents, or missing parts—do not use the device. Contact the manufacturer or the retailer immediately.

Inside the box, you’ll find:

• Your Trézor hardware wallet
• USB cable
• Recovery seed backup cards
• Trézor stickers
• Quick-start guide

Never trust devices purchased second-hand. Always buy directly from an authorized source.

Step 2: Connect and Access the Setup Interface

Plug your Trézor device into your computer using the provided USB cable. Do not install any third-party software. Trézor’s official startup interface is found via its onboarding page. From there, you’ll be prompted to download Trézor Suite, the desktop application that allows you to manage your wallet securely.

Once you open Trézor Suite, it will automatically detect your device and begin the initialization process.

Step 3: Install Firmware

New Trézor devices do not come with pre-installed firmware. This is intentional for security reasons. Once connected, Trézor Suite will prompt you to install the latest firmware version.

Follow the on-screen instructions:

• Confirm the installation on your computer screen
• Confirm the action on your Trézor device screen
• Wait for the firmware to install and verify

After successful installation, your device will reboot and be ready for setup.

Step 4: Create a New Wallet

Once your device restarts, Trézor Suite will ask whether you want to create a new wallet or restore an existing one.

Choose “Create new wallet” if you’re starting from scratch. If you’ve previously owned a wallet and have your 12- or 24-word recovery phrase, select “Recover wallet” instead.

Step 5: Backup Your Recovery Seed

This is the most critical step in the setup process. Your recovery seed (also known as your recovery phrase or backup phrase) is a list of 12, 18, or 24 randomly generated words. It serves as the only way to recover your funds if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Here’s what to do:

1. Write the seed down by hand on the provided backup card. Do not type it, take a photo, or store it digitally.
2. Double-check spelling and order. The words must be copied exactly as they appear.
3. Store the backup in a secure, offline location—like a safe or lockbox. Do not store it in your email, cloud, or anywhere connected to the internet.

Trézor will display the recovery words on the device screen only once. You will be asked to confirm a few of them as part of the process.

Step 6: Set a PIN Code

Once the backup is complete, you’ll be prompted to set a PIN code. This code is used to unlock your device every time it’s connected. Choose a PIN that is long and random, and avoid predictable sequences like 1234 or repeated digits.

• You’ll enter the PIN using your computer, but the number positions are shown only on your Trézor screen.
• This clever interface ensures keyloggers or screen recorders can’t detect your actual PIN.

Step 7: Customize and Secure Further (Optional)

After setting up your wallet, Trézor Suite allows for several optional security and customization features:

• Enable passphrase protection: Adds a layer of security by creating a “hidden wallet.” Each passphrase gives access to a separate wallet.
• Label accounts and transactions: Organize your activity for easier tracking.
• Enable Tor routing: Add anonymity to your network traffic.
• Coin control features: Let you choose which coins (UTXOs) to use in transactions, enhancing privacy.

Step 8: Add Crypto Accounts and Begin Using Your Wallet

Now that your wallet is initialized and secure, you can add crypto accounts:

• Open Trézor Suite
• Select “Add Account”
• Choose from supported coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, or ERC-20 tokens

Each account gives you the ability to receive, send, and manage crypto assets. All addresses, transaction approvals, and signings require physical confirmation on your Trézor device.

Ongoing Tips and Best Practices

1. Update Firmware Regularly: Trézor Suite will notify you when new firmware is available. These updates often include important security and feature enhancements.
2. Double-Check Addresses: Always verify wallet addresses on the Trézor screen before sending or receiving funds.
3. Keep Software Legitimate: Only use official Trézor Suite software. Avoid browser extensions or third-party apps.
4. Use Hidden Wallets for Extra Privacy: If you require more discretion or multi-account management, set up hidden wallets using passphrases.
5. Practice Safe Recovery: If you ever need to recover your wallet using your recovery seed, ensure you are offline and not being observed.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your Trézor device through the official process is more than just a technical step—it’s your first action in taking full control of your crypto. By carefully following the process outlined at Trézor.io/Start®, you’re not just activating a wallet; you’re establishing a secure, private, and long-term foundation for digital ownership.

Self-custody requires responsibility, but with a Trézor and a few best practices, you’ll have everything you need to manage your assets safely and confidently for years to come.

Your crypto. Your rules. Your Trezor®.