How to get started at trezor.io/start — a security-first walkthrough

This page explains the essential steps for initializing your Trezor hardware wallet using the official setup flow at trezor.io/start. It focuses on practical setup actions, safety checks, and everyday best practices so you can securely hold and manage crypto assets. Read it end-to-end before you begin the setup.

Why use a hardware wallet?

A hardware wallet stores cryptographic keys offline in a device that you control. Unlike exchanges or software-only wallets, hardware wallets significantly reduce exposure to online attacks, phishing, and malware on your computer or phone. The setup process is about securely creating and protecting your private keys and recovery information — do not rush.

Before you start — checklist

  1. Use a clean, trusted computer or phone and a safe network (avoid public Wi-Fi for the initial setup).
  2. Unbox your Trezor and confirm the tamper-evident seals are intact. If anything looks unusual, contact the manufacturer before proceeding.
  3. Have a pen and the supplied recovery card (or a durable alternative) ready to record your recovery words offline.
  4. Do not share seed phrases, PINs, or passphrases with anyone — not email, chat, or messages of any kind.

Step-by-step setup (what to expect at trezor.io/start)

The official setup at trezor.io/start guides you through the entire process. Below are the core actions you’ll perform and the security checks you should do at each stage.

1. Visit the official URL

Always type trezor.io/start directly in your browser address bar or follow a bookmark you created after verifying the site. Double-check the domain and use HTTPS — the browser lock icon should appear. Avoid links from emails or social media.

2. Connect the device and verify device screen

Plug the Trezor into your computer/phone using the provided cable. The device itself will display an initial welcome screen and a device fingerprint. Verify that the text on the physical device matches what the website shows — this is a hardware confirmation step designed to detect tampering or fraudulent clones.

3. Install firmware if required

If the device prompts you to install or update firmware, follow the prompts on the official site. Firmware updates fix security issues and add features — only install firmware shown and authenticated by the official web interface. Never install firmware files from random sources.

4. Create a PIN

Choose a strong PIN for daily access. The PIN is entered on-device, not on your computer, so key entry is protected from screenloggers. Use a PIN you can remember but avoid obvious sequences. If you have trouble remembering it, store it in a secure offline place — but avoid digital notes.

5. Write down the recovery seed

Your recovery seed (usually 12, 18, or 24 words) is the single most important backup. Write the words exactly in order, on paper or a durable metal backup plate, and store them in a secure, offline location (preferably in at least two geographically separate, secure places). Never digitize your seed (photo, cloud, text file). Never share it.

Tip: A passphrase (optional extra word) can create hidden wallets. It's a powerful additional security layer but increases complexity and the need for careful management. If you use a passphrase, store it securely and remember that losing it means losing access to the associated funds.

Post-setup: verify everything works

After setup, check the following:

  1. Your device displays the correct public addresses when asked to verify — never trust addresses shown on your computer alone.
  2. Perform a small test transaction before sending larger amounts. Confirm the destination address on the device screen.
  3. Confirm the recovery seed restores the wallet on a secondary device before storing the seed away; this verifies your backup is complete and legible.

Everyday safety tips

Keep your Trezor firmware up to date and avoid installing third-party apps or browser extensions that request raw access to private keys. Use reputable wallet software that supports your device, and always verify transaction outputs and addresses on the device screen. Beware of phishing: attackers often clone websites and use social engineering to trick users into revealing seeds or connecting to malicious services.

Troubleshooting common issues

If the device doesn't connect, try a different USB cable or port, reboot your computer, or use the Trezor Bridge or official compatible app as instructed on the site. If firmware update fails, follow official recovery instructions at trezor.io/support. For persistent problems, consult official support channels rather than third-party forums.

Advanced options

Advanced users can enable features like hidden wallets (with a passphrase), Shamir Backup (if supported by your model), or use the device with privacy-enhancing wallets. Each option increases flexibility but also adds responsibilities for secure key and passphrase storage.

What NOT to do

  1. Do not store seed words in a digital photo, cloud drive, or email drafts.
  2. Do not share your seed, PIN, or passphrase with anyone claiming to be support.
  3. Do not enter seed words into any website or app — recovery should be performed only on the device or an official, offline recovery tool.

Quick checklist before finishing

  1. Device screen and website match during initial verification.
  2. Firmware is authentic and up to date.
  3. PIN is set and understood (but not stored digitally).
  4. Recovery seed is complete, double-checked, and stored securely offline.
  5. Small test transaction completed successfully.