Trezor.io/Start – Official Hardware Wallet Setup Guide

Welcome to Trezor.io Start — the secure initialization process designed to help you begin using your Trezor hardware wallet safely and confidently. This official-style onboarding documentation explains each step in clear, professional detail, from firmware installation to creating your recovery seed.

1. Understanding the Trezor.io Start Process

Setting up a Trezor hardware wallet begins with verifying your device’s authenticity and installing official firmware. During this process, no personal data leaves your device. Every security element — including your PIN and recovery seed — is generated and stored offline within the hardware itself.

2. Verify the Device Packaging

Before you begin, ensure your device packaging is intact and shows no signs of tampering. Authentic Trezor devices are sealed and protected; if anything appears disturbed, stop immediately and verify authenticity before proceeding.

3. Connecting Your Hardware Wallet

Use the provided USB cable to connect your Trezor wallet to your computer. The device screen will activate and guide you through the first on-screen instructions. Always follow the prompts shown on the hardware display itself — it is your trusted source for all verification.

4. Installing Verified Firmware

The firmware is the secure operating environment of your wallet. During setup, you will be prompted to install verified, signed firmware. Firmware validation ensures your hardware wallet runs genuine software only. Never install files or updates from unknown sources.

5. Creating Your Wallet

After verification, create a new wallet directly on your Trezor device. This generates a unique master seed within the hardware wallet, fully isolated from external systems. The process guarantees complete ownership and offline control over your private keys.

6. Recording the Recovery Seed

The recovery seed is your ultimate backup. Write each word carefully as it appears on your Trezor’s screen, keeping the list offline and private. Never type, photograph, or share your recovery seed. It is the only method to restore access to your funds if your device is lost or damaged.

7. Setting a Secure PIN

Choose a strong, memorable PIN directly on your Trezor device. This code protects against unauthorized physical access. The wallet automatically increases delay times after incorrect attempts, deterring brute-force entry.

8. Optional Passphrase Protection

For advanced users, an optional passphrase can be enabled. The passphrase acts as an extra layer of encryption — similar to a 25th word added to your recovery seed. Remember, losing or forgetting the passphrase makes associated wallets unrecoverable.

9. Confirming Authentic Firmware

Every time your Trezor starts, it checks the firmware signature automatically. If the firmware is not recognized as official, the device will alert you immediately. Continue only when the authenticity verification passes.

10. How the Hardware Wallet Protects Your Keys

All cryptographic operations occur inside the secure hardware chip. Your private keys never leave the wallet, even when signing transactions. This ensures complete isolation from malware, phishing attempts, or untrusted computers.

11. Approving Transactions Securely

When sending funds, the destination address and amount appear on your Trezor display. Always confirm these details on the device screen — never rely solely on your computer’s view. Only after you confirm on the hardware does the transaction become valid.

12. Firmware Updates and Maintenance

Trezor periodically releases firmware updates to improve performance and security. Updates are always optional and can be safely installed without exposing your private data. Your recovery seed remains securely stored inside the device during updates.

13. Long-Term Backup and Storage

Store your recovery seed in a dry, secure, and private location. Consider using a fireproof or metal backup plate for durability. Never create digital copies or upload the seed to cloud storage. Your recovery seed is your permanent access key — protect it like a vault.

14. Key Safety Recommendations

Always verify addresses on your Trezor device screen before confirming.
Never share your recovery seed, PIN, or passphrase.
Use your hardware wallet only on trusted computers.
Check firmware signatures before installing updates.
Keep your device physically secure and inaccessible to others.

15. Troubleshooting and Setup Tips

If your computer doesn’t detect the device, reconnect directly to a USB port (avoid hubs). Restart both your device and computer if the issue persists. Never attempt recovery or input of your seed on a computer or phone.

Important: Your recovery seed and PIN are the only means of restoring access to your wallet. Keep them private, offline, and away from environmental or digital risks.