Welcome to the official Trezor.io/Start guide. This document walks you through every critical step of initializing your Trezor hardware wallet. Whether you're brand new to hardware wallets or migrating from a software wallet, this flow is designed to ensure your crypto assets are secured from day one.
“Trezor.io/Start” is not just a URL — it’s the trusted onboarding portal maintained by the Trezor team. By beginning here, you minimize risks like phishing, fake installers, or corrupted firmware. The process ensures authenticity checks at each stage, giving you confidence that what you install and approve is legitimate.
Every instruction, download, and verification step is carefully curated to keep your private keys isolated and your seed phrase safe. From firmware updates to device verification, this page serves as your secure launchpad.
Before you begin, prepare the following items to make setup smoother and safer:
Open your browser and type https://trezor.io/start manually. Avoid clicking on search results or links that might be spoofed. Once loaded, the page will automatically detect your device (if connected) and guide you accordingly.
The Trezor Suite is the official software interface for managing your Trezor device and your cryptocurrency portfolios. You will see links to:
Installing the desktop version is recommended for full functionality and performance. Follow the on‑screen instructions to complete installation.
Plug in your Trezor device via the USB cable. If the device has no firmware or an outdated version, Trezor Suite will prompt you to install or update firmware. Always confirm firmware installation on the device screen itself.
Once updated, your device will reboot, and you’ll reconnect it to proceed with the rest of the setup.
After firmware installation, your device and the Suite will run a genuineness check. This step ensures the hardware is original and not tampered with. You may be asked to verify some cryptographic values or confirm messages on the device screen.
At this stage, you choose one of two paths:
For new wallet setup, carefully write each seed word on the backup card in the exact order shown. Then confirm by selecting a few words as prompted.
Next, you’ll choose a PIN (usually 4 to 10 digits, depending on model). Enter the PIN onto the device itself (not your computer), confirming it twice. The PIN helps protect your Trezor in case it is physically accessed by someone else.
Be careful not to write the PIN near your device or on the same paper as your seed.
For added security, some users enable a passphrase. This acts as a 25th word and unlocks a hidden wallet. However, it increases complexity: losing or forgetting the passphrase can make your funds irretrievable—even with your seed.
If you choose to use a passphrase, fully understand the risks and practice restoring in advance.
Within Trezor Suite, you can now add, view, and manage supported assets (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, ERC‑20 tokens, etc.). Use the “Receive” function to generate deposit addresses, and the “Send” function to send out funds.
Always verify the address on your Trezor’s physical screen and compare it to the one displayed in the software before sending.
To gain confidence, start with a small test transaction. Send a minimal amount to your Trezor, check arrival, then send back or proceed with larger amounts once you’re comfortable with the process.
Within Suite, you can label wallets (e.g. “Long‑term”, “Trading”, “Savings”) and customize interface preferences. Organizing early helps avoid confusion and errors later.
If setup doesn’t go smoothly, here are frequent problems and tips to resolve them:
Your Trezor setup is just the first line of defense. Here are habits to maintain long-term security:
Once fully initialized, your Trezor becomes your portal for self‑custody. You can:
Yes — this is the official, verified setup portal. Using unauthorized URLs or third-party installers exposes you to phishing or malicious software.
Use your recovery seed on another Trezor or compatible wallet to recover funds. That’s why safe handling and storage of your seed is critical.
Yes — Trezor supports a wide range of assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, many ERC‑20 tokens, and more. The supported list is regularly updated.
If you forget your PIN but still have the seed, you must wipe the device and restore via seed. Without both, you may lose access.
Passphrases can protect against certain advanced threats, but they come with added complexity. Only use them if you're confident managing them properly.
Setting up your Trezor device may take just 10–20 minutes, but the decisions you make during setup are long-term security foundations. Take your time, follow steps carefully, and avoid shortcuts. Your recovery seed is your lifeline — treat it with utmost seriousness.
After setup, stay vigilant. Always verify on-device prompts, keep your software updated, and never trust unsolicited requests for your seed or PIN. With the right habits, your Trezor becomes a robust fortress for your digital assets.