Setting up your Trézor® hardware wallet is the first essential step to taking control of your digital assets securely. Whether you're new to crypto or just new to Trézor, this guide will walk you through the process of starting up your device safely and correctly using the official Trézor.io/Start portal.
What You’ll Need:
Step 1: Go to the Official Website
Open your web browser and navigate to Trézor’s official start-up portal: https://trezor.io/start. This ensures you’re using genuine software and protecting yourself from phishing or counterfeit products.
Step 2: Install the Trézor Suite
The Trézor Suite is the official desktop application for managing your device and cryptocurrencies. Download it directly from the start portal and follow the installation prompts for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Always download from the official website to avoid tampered software.
Step 3: Connect Your Device
Plug your Trézor device into your computer using the USB cable. The device will power on automatically. If it’s your first time, the screen will prompt you to either install firmware or check the device authenticity.
Step 4: Verify Authenticity and Install Firmware
Before setting up your wallet, Trézor Suite will guide you to check the device's authenticity. Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm that the holographic seal was intact and the box was not tampered with.
Once verified, you’ll be prompted to install the latest firmware (Trézor ships without firmware for security reasons). Click “Install Firmware” in the Suite and wait until the installation is complete. Do not unplug the device during this process.
Step 5: Create a New Wallet
After the firmware is installed, the Trézor Suite will offer you the option to create a new wallet or recover an existing one. Choose “Create New Wallet.” The device will generate a unique 12- or 24-word recovery seed phrase—this is the only way to recover your funds if the device is lost or damaged.
Step 6: Write Down Your Recovery Seed
Carefully write down your recovery seed on the provided Recovery Seed card or another secure offline medium. Do not store this seed digitally or share it with anyone. You will be asked to confirm the phrase by re-entering certain words to ensure accuracy.
Step 7: Set a PIN Code
Choose a strong PIN to add an extra layer of security to your device. This PIN will be required every time you connect your device to Trézor Suite. Avoid simple or easily guessable combinations.
Step 8: Access Your Dashboard
Once your wallet is created and secured, you’ll be taken to the Trézor Suite dashboard. From here, you can add and manage cryptocurrencies, monitor balances, send or receive transactions, and access other features like passphrase protection, labeling, and staking.
Bonus Tip: Enable Passphrase Protection
For advanced users, Trézor offers an optional “passphrase” feature—an extra word added to your recovery seed for an additional level of security. It can act as a secondary wallet with a completely separate balance.
Security Best Practices:
By following these steps, you’re ensuring that your crypto journey begins on a safe and solid foundation. For more help, visit the Trézor Support Center or community forums linked within the Suite.
Ready to begin? Head to Trézor.io/Start and secure your digital future today.