Quick Start Overview
Setting up your Trezor is simple: verify the device & packaging, install Trezor Suite, update firmware, generate your recovery backup, secure with a PIN (and optional passphrase), then add accounts and move funds. Keep every step offline-first, double-check on the device screen, and record your backup words carefully.
What you’ll need
- Your new Trezor device and the included USB cable.
- A computer with administrator rights to install software.
- Pen and the provided recovery cards (paper or metal backup).
- A calm place to write down your backup words privately.
Official setup links
Trust & Safety Always use official links. Avoid search-ad imposters.
Step 1 — Unbox & Verify Authenticity
Inspect the packaging and the device. Ensure there is no evidence of tampering. Connect only with the included cable or a trusted cable you own.
Recommended reading
Learn the basics of hardware-wallet safety and why self-custody keeps your private keys offline in the first place: Trezor Learn.
Step 2 — Install or Open Trezor Suite
Visit the official Suite page and either download the desktop app or continue securely in your browser. Verify the download if you install locally.
Desktop (Windows/macOS/Linux)
Get the app from trezor.io/trezor-suite. Advanced users can verify the binary by following the Download & Verify guide.
Web (Suite in browser)
Prefer not to install? You can use Suite on the web from the same official page above. When prompted, grant your browser permission to communicate with the device (e.g., via WebUSB).
Step 3 — Connect & Update Firmware
Plug in your Trezor. Trezor Suite will guide you to install or update firmware if needed. Confirm every action on the device screen. Firmware comes directly from the vendor and is verified during the process.
Why updates matter
Updates bring security patches, usability improvements, and new coin support. Check the Security page to understand Trezor’s approach to safeguarding users.
Step 4 — Create Your Wallet Backup
Suite will prompt you to create a new wallet and display your recovery words on the device screen. Write them down, in order, by hand. Never type them into phones, computers, cameras, or cloud notes. Depending on your device and settings, your backup may use 12, 20, or 24 words. Store the backup in a safe, discreet place.
Pro options
- Consider a durable metal backup to resist fire or water.
- Use a passphrase (an extra secret) for advanced security—just be sure you can remember it.
See supported assets and compatibility notes in Supported Coins.
Step 5 — Set PIN (and Optional Passphrase)
Choose a strong PIN you can memorize. You’ll enter it on the device to unlock actions. For additional protection, enable a passphrase in Suite. This creates a distinct “hidden” wallet. If you forget a passphrase, Trezor cannot recover it.
Best practices
- Avoid birthdays or simple patterns; use longer, non-obvious digits.
- Keep your device physically secure; PIN protects against casual access, not targeted theft.
Step 6 — Add Accounts & Receive Your First Funds
In Suite, add accounts (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). For each account, click Receive, confirm the address on your device screen, and use that address to transfer funds from an exchange or another wallet. Always verify on the Trezor display.
Troubleshooting connections
If your browser can’t see the device, ensure WebUSB is allowed and try a different USB port/cable. Check the Support hub or the Official Forum for tips.
Step 7 — Make a Test Send (Optional but Smart)
Before moving a large balance, send a small test amount. Verify the destination address on your Trezor screen before approving. Wait for confirmations, then proceed with the rest.
- Copy/paste carefully; watch out for clipboard malware on untrusted computers.
- Compare the first and last characters of the address on your Trezor screen and in Suite.
- Confirm network selection (especially for tokens) as described in Supported Coins.
Step 8 — Keep Suite & Firmware Current
Periodically open Suite and apply updates. New versions may add features, fix bugs, and broaden asset support. You can compare devices and features any time on Compare Wallets.
Learn continuously
Bookmark Trezor Learn for how-tos, security explainers, and coin-specific guides.
Common Issues & Fixes
Device not detected
Try a different USB port/cable, restart Suite, and ensure your OS trust prompts are approved. For web usage, check browser support and allow device permissions.
Wrong or unknown address shown
Ensure you’re in the correct account/network and that any passphrase is entered exactly the same each time.
Lost device
Replace the device and recover using your written backup words in Suite. Your funds live on the blockchain; the backup recreates the keys securely on your new Trezor.
Best-Practice Security Habits
- Only download from official sources: trezor.io/start and trezor.io/trezor-suite.
- Keep recovery words offline and private; never type them into a website or phone.
- Use a strong PIN; consider a passphrase if you understand the responsibility.
- Confirm on-device—treat the Trezor display as the source of truth.
- Update Suite/firmware regularly and review the Security page.
Official Resources (10 Links)
These are direct, official destinations you can trust and bookmark:
- trezor.io/start — Getting started portal
- trezor.io/trezor-suite — Suite app (desktop & web)
- trezor.io/support — Help & contact
- trezor.io/learn — Guides & security education
- trezor.io/security — Security program & policies
- trezor.io/compare — Compare devices & features
- trezor.io/coins — Supported coins & networks
- trezor.io/guides/.../download-verify-trezor-suite — Verify Suite downloads
- forum.trezor.io — Official community forum
- trezor.io/store — Devices & accessories store
Stay Alert: Phishing & Imitation Sites
How to spot a fake
Phishing sites often use look-alike domains, pop-up “seed import” prompts, or browser extensions. Official pages will never ask you to type your recovery words on a computer or phone.
When in doubt
Re-enter from the links above or type trezor.io
manually in your browser’s address bar.