Start Securely with Trezor

1. Why use a Trezor hardware wallet?

Hardware wallets like Trezor keep your private keys offline, protecting them from online attackers, phishing, and malware. The physical device creates and stores keys in an isolated environment, so signing transactions requires your explicit physical confirmation on the device.

Key security benefits

- Offline key generation and storage.
- PIN and passphrase protections.
- Backup seed (recovery phrase) control and recovery process.
- Firmware checks to verify device authenticity.

Practical tip

Keep the recovery seed offline and in multiple secure locations (e.g., safe or a secure metal backup) — never store the full seed on an internet-connected device.

2. Before you begin: unboxing & checks

When you receive your Trezor device, confirm packaging integrity and that the tamper-evident seals (if present) are intact. Use official download links from trezor.io/start to get the Trezor Suite app or web instructions.

Important preparations

1. Have the included USB cable and a computer or supported mobile device ready.
2. Do not plug the device into unknown public/shared computers for initial setup.
3. Follow on-screen device prompts and never share recovery phrases with anyone.

3. Step-by-step setup (overview)

This is a concise setup flow you’ll follow using Trezor Suite or the web start page: connect device → install firmware → create PIN → generate recovery seed → confirm seed → update suite and enable desired coins.

Detailed flow

1. Connect & authenticate

Plug your Trezor into the computer and confirm device authenticity when prompted. The Suite will guide you through verifying the device and installing firmware if needed.

2. Create PIN

Set a PIN on the device to prevent local misuse. Use a PIN you can remember but that’s not trivial.

3. Generate & secure recovery seed

Write down the recovery seed exactly as displayed. Confirm it when prompted. This is the only backup of your keys.

4. Finish & use

Open Trezor Suite, add accounts, and start receiving coins. For advanced operations (staking, swapping, third-party integrations), consult the guides.

4. Maintenance, updates, and best practices

Keep firmware and software updated

Regularly update device firmware and Trezor Suite to receive security fixes and new features. Updates are normally delivered through official channels in the Suite.

Backups & multiple copies

Create secure backups of your recovery seed. Consider using a metal seed-storage product for fire/water protection and consider geographic diversification of copies.

Phishing awareness

Only use links that begin with trezor.io and double-check domain names. Bookmark the official Start page to avoid malicious imitators.