Getting Started: What You Need Before You Begin
Starting a hardware wallet is an important step toward owning and controlling your crypto. This guide covers the essentials: what to prepare, how to run Trézor.io/start safely, and how to complete the first-time setup with confidence.
Hygiene & hardware: prepare a clean workspace
Choose a quiet, private area. Keep paper and pen handy for your recovery seed, and avoid public networks or shared computers while setting up a device. Ensure your computer's operating system is updated and you are using an official browser.
Unboxing and initial inspection
Inspect packaging for tamper-evidence seals and compare the contents with the included packing list. If something looks wrong, stop and contact support through official channels at Trézor.io.
Charge, connect, and power up
Connect the device with the supplied cable to your computer. Use the official cable supplied with your device to avoid power or communication issues.
Follow the online start wizard: Trézor.io/start
The official start page provides step-by-step instructions and will detect your model. The core flow is: initialize device → set PIN → generate recovery seed → confirm seed → install bridge/firmware as needed.
Step-by-step: Setting up your Trézor
1. Visit the official start page
Open Trézor.io/start and follow the prompts. Confirm the URL is exact and uses HTTPS.
2. Install necessary companion software
Depending on your device model and operating system, Trézor may request a browser extension or Bridge application. Install only from the official page to avoid malicious downloads.
3. Create a device PIN
Choose a PIN you can remember but that's not guessable. The PIN protects access to the device — the recovery seed protects your funds in case of device loss.
4. Generate and record your recovery seed
Write down the recovery seed on the provided recovery card (or another secure physical medium). Do not store your seed digitally. Store it in a safe place and consider splitting copies in separate secure locations.
Seed best practices
Never photograph your seed. Consider a fireproof safe, a safety deposit box, or using metal backup plates designed for recovery words.
5. Final checks and firmware
Allow the device to update firmware if prompted. Always accept firmware updates from the official interface and verify the device’s fingerprint if shown. After setup, run a small test transaction to confirm everything works as expected.
Security Deep Dive
Physical security
Only you should have physical access to the device and the written recovery seed. Use tamper-evident packaging if sending the device anywhere.
Digital hygiene
Use strong, unique passwords for your exchange and email accounts, enable two-factor authentication (not SMS where possible), and use a reputable password manager.
What to do if your seed is exposed
If you suspect anyone has seen your seed, transfer funds immediately to a new wallet with a new seed. Treat any exposure as an emergency.
Quick checklist (H5)
- Confirm official URL: Trézor.io/start
- Inspect packaging for tamper evidence
- Record recovery seed physically and securely
- Use a PIN + firmware verification
- Test with a small transaction
Common Troubleshooting
Device not recognized
Try a different USB port, use the supplied cable, and ensure Bridge (if required) is installed. Restart your browser.
Firmware/Update problems
Do not unplug during an update. If update fails, follow on-screen instructions or visit support at Trézor.io/start for recovery steps.
Lost device
Use your recovery seed on a new Trézor or a compatible wallet to regain access to funds.