Trezor.io/Start — Official Guide to Setup Your Trezor Wallet

Clear, practical setup instructions for first-time users and a quick reference for returning users. This guide walks through unboxing, initializing, wallet backup, connecting to Trezor Suite (desktop or web), and common troubleshooting.

Quick summary — what you’ll do

In short: verify packaging, install Trezor Suite or use the official web start flow, create or restore a wallet, write down the wallet backup (seed), confirm on-device, and test with a small transaction.

Before you begin

  • Use a clean, trusted computer and a private network (avoid public Wi-Fi).
  • Download Trezor Suite from the official site (recommended) or follow the web start flow at trezor.io/start.
  • Have pen and the provided backup card or a metal backup ready for recording your wallet backup (seed).

Step-by-step setup (recommended flow)

  1. Unbox and inspect. Confirm the packaging shows no signs of tampering. If you see anything suspicious, contact support and do not continue.
  2. Download Trezor Suite. For the smoothest and most supported experience, download the official Trezor Suite app (desktop or web). The Suite handles firmware installation, device authentication, and ongoing updates.
  3. Connect your device. Plug the Trezor into your computer using the supplied cable. Launch Trezor Suite (or continue in browser if using web flow) and follow the on-screen prompts.
  4. Install firmware (if required). New devices commonly need firmware installation. Allow the Suite to install the firmware only when prompted by the official app interface. Do not follow instructions from unknown sources.
  5. Create a new wallet or restore. Choose “Create new” to initialize a new wallet. If you already have a wallet backup/wallet seed, choose “Restore” and carefully enter words in sequence as prompted.
  6. Choose and set a PIN. Select a PIN on your device for basic local protection. Avoid easy patterns and don’t reuse PINs from other services.
  7. Write down your wallet backup (seed). Your device will display the wallet backup words — write them down in the order shown and keep them offline (paper or metal). This backup is the only way to recover funds if your device is lost or damaged.
  8. Confirm the backup on-device. The app will ask you to confirm several words to ensure you recorded them correctly. Complete that check on the device.
  9. Add accounts & install apps. In Trezor Suite, add cryptocurrency accounts you want to manage. For some device families you may need to install additional apps or enable specific network features.
  10. Send a test transaction. Before transferring large amounts, receive a small amount to confirm the address and end-to-end flow are correct.

Key safety rules (must follow)

  • Never
  • enter your wallet backup (seed) into a computer, website, chat, or email. No legitimate support will ask for it.
  • Always
  • verify receiving addresses and transaction details on the Trezor device screen before approving.
  • Keep backups offline:
  • use multiple physical copies in separate secure locations (home safe, bank deposit box, etc.). Consider a metal backup for long-term durability.

Model-specific notes

Trezor Model One and Model T differ slightly in UX — Model T has a touchscreen which simplifies direct word entry and confirmations; Model One may use the computer for some word input during recovery. Follow the device-specific guides in Trezor’s documentation if you see prompts that differ from this general flow.

Troubleshooting — quick fixes

Device not detected

Try a different USB cable and port, restart the Suite/browser, and ensure no system firewall is blocking local connections. On some OSes you may need to allow the Suite in Security/Privacy settings.

Firmware install fails or device becomes unresponsive

Do not enter your wallet backup on any website. Restart the Suite, try reinstalling drivers (if prompted), and consult official recovery steps. Contact official support if the device remains unresponsive.

Advanced & optional features

  • Passphrase protection (additional secret): optional 25th passphrase can create hidden wallets. It increases security but also increases responsibility — if you lose the passphrase you lose access to that hidden wallet.
  • Shamir or multi-share backups: some Trezor models and accessories support splitting backups across multiple parts for inheritance or extra redundancy. Research carefully before using.
  • Use Trezor Suite mobile: available for iOS/Android to manage on-the-go (supported device connectivity varies by model and OS).

Checklist before sending large amounts

  • ✅ Device set up and firmware up to date
  • ✅ PIN set and tested
  • ✅ Backup written and verified
  • ✅ Small test transaction confirmed
  • ✅ Receiving address verified on-device

Where to get official help

Always use Trezor’s official documentation, guides, and support pages for recovery instructions or troubleshooting. Do not follow advice from unverified forums or social media posts that request seeds or private keys.

<a class="btn btn-primary" href="https://trezor.io/start" role="button">Visit Official Trezor Start</a>
Last updated: October 27, 2025