Before you start — what to have ready
Setting up a Trezor is straightforward but security-focused. Prepare:
- Your new Trezor device (Model One, Model T, or Safe device) and the supplied USB cable.
- A computer with a safe, up-to-date browser (or the Trezor Suite desktop app).
- A secure, private place to write down your recovery backup (avoid taking photos or saving it digitally).
Overview — the basic flow
This guide follows the standard flow you’ll see at trezor.io/start and in the official app: connect → install firmware → create or recover wallet → set PIN → backup → use. The whole initial setup typically takes about 10–20 minutes, depending on how carefully you record your backup.
Step 1 — open trezor.io/start (or use Trezor Suite)
Open a secure browser and navigate to trezor.io/start, or download and install the official Trezor Suite desktop app for macOS, Windows, or Linux. The wizard will prompt you to connect your Trezor device and guide you through the rest of the process.
Step 2 — connect your device and install firmware
- Plug your Trezor into your computer using the supplied cable.
- The Suite or start page will detect the device and usually notify you that firmware is required. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the latest firmware. Trezor devices are commonly shipped without firmware to ensure each user installs the most recent, verified release during setup.
- Allow any browser permission prompts if asked; do not install third-party or unofficial firmware.
Step 3 — create a new wallet or recover an existing one
After firmware is installed, you’ll be offered two choices: Create new wallet or Recover wallet. Choose create if you’re starting fresh. If you already have a recovery (seed) phrase from another hardware wallet, choose recover.
Step 4 — set a PIN
Next the device will ask you to set a PIN. This PIN is entered on the device itself (for security) and prevents access if your Trezor is physically stolen. Don’t lose the PIN — but also don’t store it with your recovery backup.
Step 5 — write down your recovery backup (the seed)
The Trezor will display your wallet backup words (sometimes called a recovery seed). This is the most important step: write the words down in order on the supplied recovery card (or another secure paper backup) and store it somewhere safe and private. Do not photograph, copy into a cloud note, or store the words on an internet-connected device.
Step 6 — finish initialization and review
After confirming the backup words, the Suite will finalize setup. You can optionally name your device, opt in/out of anonymous usage statistics, and choose settings like default cryptocurrencies to display.
Using Trezor Suite (formerly Trezor Live)
Trezor Suite is the official app for managing your Trezor: send/receive crypto, view portfolio balances, connect third-party services (e.g., exchanges), and manage device settings. The Suite provides an intuitive interface and will prompt for device confirmations on the hardware unit for all signing actions.
Moving coins to your Trezor
- In Suite, choose Receive and copy the deposit address for the coin you want to move.
- From your exchange or hot wallet, send funds to the address shown. Always confirm the address on the Trezor device screen matches the address in Suite before sending.
Troubleshooting common setup issues
- Device not detected: Try a different USB port or cable and make sure your browser is up to date. If using the web Suite, allow the browser to access USB devices.
- Firmware install failed: Reboot the computer and try again. Verify you downloaded Suite from the official site.
- Forgot PIN: If you forget the PIN you will need to reset the device and recover from your backup words.
Best security practices
- Buy hardware only from official channels. Inspect packaging for tampering.
- Store backups in at least two geographically separate, secure locations if your funds are large (e.g., a safe or safety deposit box).
- Never share recovery words or enter them into websites. The Trezor device is designed so the seed never leaves the device; avoid exceptions.
- Keep firmware up to date — updates include security improvements.
Advanced: passphrases & hidden wallets
For extra protection you can use a passphrase (a secret string added to your backup words) to create hidden wallets. This is a powerful feature but adds complexity — if you lose the passphrase, the associated funds are irretrievable. Use passphrases only if you understand the extra responsibility.
Wrap-up & resources
Setting up a Trezor is simple but requires care at the backup stage. Once configured, your Trezor significantly increases protection by keeping private keys offline and requiring physical confirmation for transactions.
Official resources and step-by-step guides are available on the Trezor website and within the Suite app — consult them for device-specific instructions (Model One vs Model T vs Safe devices).