Getting started: A clear, confident path to secure crypto
This guide walks you through the essential steps to set up and use your Trezor hardware wallet. Follow each stage carefully — hardware wallets dramatically reduce risk, but their protection depends on correct setup and a few good habits.
1. Unbox and inspect
When your Trezor arrives, inspect the packaging for tamper evidence. Hardware wallets come sealed; do not use the device if the seal looks altered. Take a moment to confirm the model and serial number (usually printed on the packaging) if you want to register it for warranty or verify authenticity through the official channels.
2. Install Trezor Suite
Download the official Trezor Suite application from the official website. Trezor Suite provides a desktop and web interface for device setup, firmware updates, and transaction signing. Always verify the download URL and checksum listed on the official site. Avoid downloading from untrusted sources or following links from unfamiliar places — malicious imitations exist.
3. Create a PIN
When prompted, create a secure PIN for your device. This PIN protects the device if it is physically lost or stolen. Choose a PIN that is memorable but not easily guessable. Trezor will require the PIN each time you unlock the device, so pick a balance between convenience and strength. If you prefer stronger security, you can enable a passphrase later to create an additional layer of protection.
4. Generate and record your recovery phrase
After setting a PIN, the device will generate a recovery phrase (also called a seed). This phrase is the back-up of your entire wallet. Write it down on the included card and store it in a secure, offline location such as a safe. Do not store the recovery phrase on your computer, phone, or cloud storage. Consider splitting the phrase into multiple secure locations for redundancy. The recovery phrase is the only way to recover your funds if the device is lost, damaged or stolen.
5. Verify your backup
Trezor will ask you to confirm a subset of words to verify you recorded the recovery phrase correctly. This step ensures you can recover your wallet if necessary. Do this with care — rushing this step is the most common reason users later discover they cannot recover their funds.
6. Firmware updates
Keep your device up to date. Firmware updates add improvements and security patches. Trezor Suite will notify you when a firmware update is available. Only update your device using the official app and confirm the update on the device itself. Never install firmware from unknown third-party sources.
7. Connect to wallets and services
Trezor supports integration with many wallets and services. Connect only to trusted applications and always verify transaction details on the hardware device before approving. The device’s screen shows the exact destination address and amount, which prevents man-in-the-middle attacks from compromised hosts.
8. Daily best practices
— Verify addresses on device: Always use your Trezor’s screen to confirm transactions.\n— Limit network exposure: Use a trusted computer or an air-gapped setup for the most sensitive operations.\n— Beware phishing: Don’t click links asking for your recovery phrase or PIN. Trezor or its official partners will never ask you to disclose your seed or PIN via email or chat.\n— Multi-factor mindset: Consider combining Trezor with additional security measures such as passphrases and multisig wallets for high-value holdings.
Advanced protection: Passphrases & multisig
For users who require heightened security, Trezor supports passphrases and multisignature setups. A passphrase acts as an additional secret added to your recovery phrase that creates a hidden wallet. If you lose the passphrase, the hidden wallet is inaccessible — so manage it carefully. Multisig allows multiple independent devices or keys to sign a transaction, spreading risk across multiple parties or devices and preventing any single point of compromise.
Why hardware wallets matter
Custodial services and exchange wallets are convenient, but they introduce counterparty risk: funds are controlled by the service operator. A hardware wallet like Trezor ensures that only you control the private keys. This changes the security model from trusting someone else to relying on your custody practices. With proper setup and safe habit, a hardware wallet provides the most robust line of defense against remote attackers.
Common questions
What if I lose my device? Use your recovery phrase to restore your wallet to a new Trezor or another compatible wallet.\nCan Trezor be hacked? No system is 100% impervious, but hardware wallets dramatically reduce attack surface. Trezor's open-source firmware allows experts to audit the code.\nShould I store the recovery phrase digitally? Absolutely not. Storing the recovery phrase on a connected device or cloud exposes it to attackers.
Security checklist
- Buy from official or authorized resellers
- Verify seals and device authenticity
- Set a PIN and record your recovery phrase offline
- Keep firmware up to date via Trezor Suite
- Verify transactions on the device display
- Use passphrase and multisig for high-value holdings
- Never share seed or PIN with anyone
Next steps
Ready to set up your Trezor? Click "Set up your Trezor" to launch Trezor Suite and follow the guided onboarding. If you already have a seed, choose "Restore backup" to recover your wallet quickly. For additional help, our support center offers step-by-step articles and a community forum for common questions.
Trezor Start is designed to make ownership and control of digital assets straightforward without compromising security. Whether you're acquiring your first crypto asset or managing a diversified portfolio, a hardware wallet gives you peace of mind by keeping your keys where they belong: under your control.