Trêzor.io/start® — Starting Up Your Device | Trezor®

Jamie Larson

06 Jan 2026 — 5 min read

Welcome to Trezor, the world’s original and most trusted hardware wallet. Since 2013, Trezor has empowered millions to secure their digital wealth with uncompromising security and ease. This step-by-step guide will help you set up your new device—your personal vault for the decentralized future.

First, a Quick Checklist

Ensure you have everything before starting:

Your Trezor device (Model T or Safe 3)
The supplied USB-C cable
Recovery seed cards (included in box)
A computer with internet access
Approximately 15 minutes

⚠️ Security First: Only follow this guide at the official trezor.io/start URL. Bookmark it to avoid phishing sites.

Part 1: Install Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is your secure dashboard for managing cryptocurrencies.

Go to suite.trezor.io
Download the Desktop App (Recommended for best security) for Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Install and launch the application.

Why use the desktop app? It offers enhanced security, full functionality, and works offline for transaction signing.

Part 2: Initialize Your Device

Step 1 – Connect Your Trezor

Use the included USB-C cable to connect your Trezor to your computer.
If this is a brand-new device, Trezor Suite will prompt you to install the latest firmware. This is essential for security and functionality.

Step 2 – Choose Your Setup Path

Create a new wallet: Select this if this is your first Trezor or you want a fresh start.
Recover wallet: Choose this if you are restoring from a previous backup seed phrase.

Step 3 – Select Your Backup Type

Standard Backup (12-word seed): The classic, reliable method perfect for most users.
Shamir Backup (Advanced): For those who want to split their secret into multiple shares (e.g., 3-of-5). Available on Trezor Model T.

Part 3: The Most Critical Step – Your Recovery Seed

This is the master key to your entire wallet. Protecting it is paramount.

On Your Trezor Screen:

A list of words (your recovery seed) will appear one word at a time.
Write each word in order on the provided recovery seed card. Use a pen.
Double-check the accuracy and order.

Your Seed Security Commandments:

✅ DO store the card in a fireproof safe or safety deposit box.
✅ DO consider creating a second backup in a separate location.
❌ DO NOT take a photo or type it on any digital device.
❌ DO NOT store it in cloud storage or email it to yourself.
❌ DO NOT share it with anyone—not even Trezor support.

Remember: If you lose your Trezor but have your seed, your funds are safe. If you lose your seed, your funds are irrecoverable—even if you have the device.

Step 4 – Verify Your Seed

Trezor Suite will ask you to select several of the words you just wrote down.
This confirms you made an accurate backup. Do not skip this step.

Part 4: Finalize Your Setup

Step 5 – Set a PIN

Create a PIN to protect your device from physical access.
The keypad randomizes each time to prevent onlookers from guessing your PIN.
You will need this PIN every time you connect your Trezor.

Step 6 – Name Your Device

Give your Trezor a nickname (e.g., “My Crypto Vault”).
This is helpful if you own multiple devices.

🎉 Setup Complete! Welcome to Trezor Suite.

Your dashboard is now ready. Here’s what you can do:

Receive Crypto: Generate your first receiving address.
Explore Assets: View over 1,400 supported coins and tokens.
Buy/Sell/Exchange: Use the integrated exchange features.
Track Portfolio: See the total value of your holdings.
Discover Advanced Features: Enable CoinJoin, Tor, or a Hidden Wallet.

Level Up Your Security

Hidden Wallet (Passphrase)

Add an optional passphrase to create a completely separate wallet. This provides:

Plausible deniability (you can reveal a “decoy” wallet under duress).
An extra layer of security beyond your PIN and seed.
Enable in Settings > Security.

FIDO2 Authentication

Use your Trezor as a physical security key to log into websites like Google, GitHub, and Dropbox without a password.

Enable in Settings > Security.

Bitcoin-Only Firmware

For Bitcoin maximalists, we offer a dedicated firmware that removes support for other coins, minimizing potential attack surfaces.

Best Practices for the Long Term

Verify Addresses on the Device Screen: Always confirm the receiving address shown on your Trezor's screen matches the one on your computer.
Keep Firmware Updated: Trezor Suite will notify you. Updates patch vulnerabilities and add features.
Practice Recovery: Once you’ve moved a small amount of crypto, practice restoring your wallet with your seed on a different device or in a software wallet (like Electrum) to ensure your backup works.
Keep Your Seed Offline: Reiterate: your seed’s security is your crypto’s security.

Need Help? We’re Here.

📚 Comprehensive Support: Visit our Help Center for detailed articles.
💬 Community Wisdom: Join the conversation on our Community Forum.
🔧 Direct Support: Contact our team via the help desk in Trezor Suite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. I already have a software wallet (like MetaMask). Can I use it with Trezor?

Yes, absolutely. This is a great practice. You can connect your Trezor to MetaMask. When you do, your private keys remain secured in the Trezor, but you can use MetaMask’s interface for interacting with decentralized apps (dApps). This gives you the security of cold storage with the convenience of a hot wallet for DeFi and NFTs.

2. What happens if I enter my PIN incorrectly too many times?

As a security feature, your Trezor will wipe itself after 16 consecutive incorrect PIN attempts. This protects your device from brute-force attacks. Don’t panic—this is by design. Simply recover your wallet using your original 12-word recovery seed. All your funds and transaction history will be restored.

3. Can I use my Trezor with a smartphone or tablet?

Yes, with some considerations.

Android: Works via USB-OTG cable using the Trezor Suite web interface.
iOS (iPhone/iPad): Currently works via the Trezor Suite web interface in browsers like Safari. A dedicated mobile app is in development.
For full functionality and firmware updates, the desktop app is still recommended.

4. Is my recovery seed compatible with other wallets?

Yes. Your standard 12-word seed follows the universal BIP39 standard. This means you can import it into most other hardware and software wallets (like Ledger, Exodus, or Electrum) if needed. This ensures you are never locked into the Trezor ecosystem.

5. What’s the difference between the Trezor Model T and Trezor Safe 3?

Both provide the same core, industry-leading security. The main differences are:

Trezor Model T: Features a color touchscreen for intuitive navigation, a microSD card slot for advanced encryption, and native support for Shamir Backup (SLIP-39).
Trezor Safe 3: Built around a secure element chip for enhanced resistance to physical attacks, offering premium security in a compact and value-focused design.

6. I lost my recovery seed but still have my Trezor and PIN. What should I do?

Act immediately.

Do not disconnect your Trezor. Your PIN gives you access for now.
Transfer all funds from your Trezor to a temporary, trusted software wallet or exchange account.
Reset your Trezor device (this will wipe it) and go through the setup process again to generate a brand new recovery seed. Write it down securely.
Send your funds back to your new, securely backed-up Trezor wallet.
This process underscores why your seed is more important than the device itself.

You Are Your Own Bank. Secure Your Sovereignty.

By completing this setup, you have taken a monumental step toward true financial independence. You now hold the keys to your digital future. Trezor is your tool, but you are the guardian.

Stay secure, stay sovereign.

Trezor® is a trademark of SatoshiLabs s.r.o. Use only official software from our verified domains to ensure your security.