Trezor.io/Start – Hardware Wallet Setup

Overview

Secure, Presentation-Style Guide

This single‑file HTML provides a colorful, presentation‑style walkthrough to help you set up a Trezor hardware wallet from a clean slate. It’s optimized for readability with bold section headers, friendly gradients, and concise callouts you can skim like slides. The content focuses on safe, reproducible actions: preparing your computer, connecting the device, installing the companion software, verifying authenticity, creating and backing up your recovery seed, and enabling optional protections such as a PIN or passphrase. While this page references the common “start” flow for Trezor devices, it is an independent educational guide and not an official site. Always verify you’re using legitimate software obtained from trusted sources and keep your recovery seed private and offline.

Before You Begin

Prerequisites & Safe Workspace

Unbox carefully. Inspect seals and packaging. If something looks tampered with, stop and contact the seller. Keep the device, cable, and any included cards within reach.

Prepare your computer. Close unnecessary apps, apply OS updates, and ensure you have administrator permissions. Use a direct USB port for the first setup (avoid hubs).

Go offline if you prefer. You can read this guide offline. When you install wallet software or update firmware, reconnect to the internet on a trusted network, not public Wi‑Fi.

Get writing tools. Have a permanent pen and paper ready for the recovery seed. Avoid taking photos, screenshots, or storing the seed digitally.

Core Setup

Connect & Initialize Your Trezor

1) Connect the device. Plug your Trezor into a trusted computer using the original cable. If prompted to confirm on‑device, review messages directly on the hardware screen.

2) Install companion software. Use the official companion app for device management and firmware updates. Follow the on‑screen prompts to detect your device and begin initialization.

3) Update firmware (recommended). New devices may ship without the newest firmware. Approve the update on the device. Never confirm actions that don’t match what you see on your computer.

4) Create a new wallet. Choose “create new.” Your device will display the recovery seed words on its screen. Write them in order on paper. Do not type the seed on your keyboard or phone.

5) Verify the seed. Most flows ask you to confirm random words back on the device. Double‑check each word’s spelling. If something feels rushed or unclear, restart the process—there’s no penalty for caution.

6) Set a strong PIN. Enable a multi‑digit PIN to protect local access. Use a non‑obvious pattern and store it separately from the device. Confirm the PIN on the device screen.

Security Essentials

Protect Your Recovery Seed

Your recovery seed is the master key to your wallet. Anyone who has it can control your funds. Keep it offline and private.

Never share. No legitimate support will ask for your seed, passwords, or private keys. If someone does, it’s a scam.

Create two copies. Store in separate, secure locations (e.g., safe or safety deposit box). Consider a metal backup for fire/water resistance.

Check environment. Avoid cameras, smart assistants, and people around you while writing the seed. Take your time and print clearly.

Optional passphrase. For advanced users, a passphrase adds an extra layer; without it, the seed alone won’t open the same wallet. Memorize or store this carefully.

Post‑Setup

Test, Receive, and Maintain

7) Test with a small amount. Generate a receive address, confirm it on the device display, and send a tiny transaction first. Verify it arrives before moving larger funds.

8) Learn the approval flow. Every critical action—receiving, sending, exporting public keys—should be verified on the device screen. If the on‑device text differs from the app’s text, cancel.

9) Keep software current. Update the companion app and firmware periodically to benefit from security patches and new coin support. Re‑verify release notes when prompted.

10) Document your process. Note your PIN strategy, passphrase use (if any), and storage locations without revealing secrets. Clear, private documentation reduces mistakes later.

Troubleshooting

Common Issues & Quick Fixes

If something doesn’t look right, it’s okay to disconnect and start over. Your coins stay safe on the blockchain as long as your recovery seed is private and intact.

Device not recognized: Try a different USB port or cable. Restart the computer and ensure drivers/OS updates are current.

Firmware loop: If firmware keeps prompting, confirm updates on‑device and wait for the final success screen before unplugging.

Seed mismatch: If verification fails, reset and generate a new wallet. Destroy any partial notes you made. Never reuse a questionable seed.

Address confusion: Always cross‑check the address on the device display. If the app shows a different value than the device, cancel and re‑connect.

Wrap‑Up

You’re Ready to Use Your Hardware Wallet

With your PIN set, firmware updated, and recovery seed stored safely offline, you’re equipped for everyday use. Treat your device like a vault and your seed like the vault’s master key. When in doubt, slow down and verify on the device screen. For ongoing safety, schedule periodic checks: confirm backups, review security notes, and test a small receive/send to stay confident with the flow. Responsible habits today mean peace of mind tomorrow.