Introduction
Welcome to Trezor.io Start — your gateway to safely setting up and using the world’s first hardware cryptocurrency wallet. This page provides the complete introduction to initializing a new Trezor device, creating a recovery seed, installing Trezor Suite, and understanding the importance of private key management.
Whether you’re a first-time crypto holder or an experienced investor seeking enhanced protection, Trezor.io Start walks you through a user-friendly onboarding process that blends intuitive design with world-class security engineering.
What is Trezor?
Trezor is a physical hardware wallet that keeps your private keys offline and away from hackers. It enables you to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies safely, even on a computer that might be compromised.
By connecting Trezor to your computer or mobile device, you interact with the blockchain securely — confirming every action on the device’s own screen. No one can move your crypto without physical confirmation from your Trezor hardware wallet.
Step 1 — Visit Trezor.io/Start
Begin by connecting your new Trezor device to your computer using the USB cable. Then, open your browser and go to https://trezor.io/start. This is the official and only trusted starting point. Avoid search engine links or third-party sites that may attempt phishing attacks.
Once on the site, you’ll be guided to download Trezor Suite, the official desktop application for managing your wallet.
Step 2 — Install Trezor Suite
Trezor Suite is the central hub for your wallet. It’s available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. After downloading and installing it, connect your device and launch the application.
The app will automatically detect your Trezor and guide you through firmware installation (if needed). Keep your device connected until the process completes. Once done, you’ll see a clean dashboard inviting you to create or restore a wallet.
Trezor Suite combines security, usability, and design clarity — all functions, including sending and receiving crypto, managing tokens, and checking balances, occur within this protected environment.
Step 3 — Create or Recover Your Wallet
If this is your first time using Trezor, select Create New Wallet. Your device will generate a unique recovery seed — a list of 12, 18, or 24 words. Write these words down on paper and store them securely. This recovery seed is the only way to recover your wallet if your Trezor is lost or damaged.
Never take a screenshot or store the seed digitally. Offline storage is the safest method.
If you already have a seed from a previous Trezor, select Recover Wallet and follow the on-screen instructions. The device ensures you enter recovery words in a randomized order to protect against keyloggers.
Step 4 — Secure Your Device
After creating your wallet, set a strong PIN. This prevents unauthorized access if someone gains physical possession of your device.
- Use at least 6 digits, preferably non-repeating numbers.
- Do not use easily guessable patterns like “123456.”
- Keep your PIN written down separately from your recovery seed.
Once the PIN is set, you can name your device for easier identification (for example, “Main Wallet” or “Cold Storage”).
Step 5 — Using Trezor Suite
Inside the dashboard, you can see your portfolio overview, recent transactions, and individual asset balances. Sending and receiving coins is straightforward:
- Click “Receive” to generate a new address and confirm it on your device screen.
- Click “Send” to enter the recipient address, amount, and confirm the transaction on your Trezor.
The device ensures all actions are verified physically, making malware-based attacks ineffective. Every transaction must be confirmed on the Trezor screen — this guarantees that what you see is what you sign.
Step 6 — Advanced Settings and Privacy
Trezor Suite includes privacy features such as Tor integration, labeling for transactions, and optional passphrase protection.
A passphrase acts as a 25th recovery word. When enabled, it creates a hidden wallet accessible only with that passphrase. This adds another layer of security in case someone discovers your recovery seed.
Be cautious: forgetting your passphrase means losing access to that hidden wallet forever. Always test backups before storing significant funds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Never buy Trezor devices from unofficial marketplaces.
- Never share your seed or enter it on a website.
- Keep firmware updated using official sources only.
- Disconnect your wallet when not in use.
- Use a strong computer password and keep your OS updated.
Following these principles ensures that your funds remain secure even if your computer becomes compromised.
Security Philosophy
Trezor’s philosophy is based on open-source verification and offline safety. Its firmware, cryptography, and communication protocols are publicly auditable, ensuring transparency and community trust.
Hardware security modules (HSM) and cryptographic chips inside the Trezor device handle all signing internally. No sensitive information ever leaves the hardware — this is why using a hardware wallet is far safer than relying on hot wallets or exchanges.
Troubleshooting and Support
If your Trezor isn’t detected, try switching USB cables or ports. Ensure the latest version of Trezor Suite is installed. On Linux, you may need to adjust udev rules. For any persistent issue, visit Trezor Support for verified help.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this Trezor.io Start guide, you’ve established a strong foundation for your crypto security. With your wallet initialized, your recovery seed safely stored, and your device protected by a PIN, you now control your digital assets with complete sovereignty.
Remember, the core principle of cryptocurrency ownership is self-custody. With Trezor, you own your keys — and therefore, your future.
Continue exploring advanced features in Trezor Suite, and stay informed through Trezor’s official blog for the latest updates, privacy tools, and educational resources.