Your path to self-custody begins at Trezor.io/start.
🚨 Security Notice: Always navigate directly to the official setup address provided in your packaging or in this guide. **Never** input your wallet backup phrase into any website, software, or application unless specifically prompted to do so on your physical Trezor device screen during a formal recovery process.
In the world of decentralized finance, securing your assets is paramount. Your Trezor hardware wallet represents the gold standard for self-custody, acting as an isolated environment that keeps your unique private keys physically separated from vulnerable internet-connected devices. Getting started correctly is the most important step in your security journey.
The official starting point, Trezor.io/start, initiates a seamless process that guides you through checking your device's authenticity, installing the crucial firmware, and creating your completely new, private digital wallet. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every critical stage, ensuring your setup is both secure and stress-free.
Before connecting your device, a thorough inspection is non-negotiable. Trezor packaging includes specific tamper-evident security seals. Examine the packaging closely:
If you suspect any tampering, stop immediately and contact Trezor support. Never proceed with a compromised device.
Connect your Trezor device to your computer using the original cable. Your device's screen should illuminate. Now, navigate your browser directly to the designated setup address: Trezor.io/start.
The setup page will prompt you to download the **Trezor Suite** application—the official interface for managing your digital assets. While a web-based option exists, the desktop Suite provides the most robust and secure experience. Download and install the application from the official link provided on the setup page.
Your new Trezor arrives without pre-installed firmware as an additional security measure. Trezor Suite will detect this and guide you through the process of installing the latest, verified firmware. This firmware is the operating system for your hardware wallet, and its installation is confirmed directly on the device itself. **Always ensure the firmware installation is performed via the official Trezor Suite only.**
After firmware installation, Trezor Suite will offer two primary choices: **Create new wallet** or **Recover wallet**. For a new device, you will select **Create new wallet**. This triggers the process of generating your unique cryptographic keys.
This is the most critical security step. Your Trezor device will display a sequence of 12, 18, or 24 words—your **Wallet Backup Phrase** (sometimes referred to as a recovery seed). **Your device is the only place these words are displayed.**
🔑 Golden Rule of Self-Custody: Write down your Wallet Backup Phrase **in order** on the provided physical backup card(s). **Never** type it on a keyboard, photograph it, save it digitally on any computer, phone, or cloud service. This physical copy is the absolute master key to your digital assets. Losing it means losing your assets if your Trezor is damaged or lost.
The software will then instruct you to confirm the backup phrase on your device. This vital step simulates a recovery to ensure you have accurately recorded the words. Do not skip this! A successful verification confirms your backup is perfect and ready for secure, offline storage.
The PIN (Personal Identification Number) is the first line of defense against unauthorized physical access to your device. When prompted by Trezor Suite, you will set your PIN directly on the **Trezor device screen** (or using the shuffled number pad on your computer screen, with confirmation on the device for Model One). Choose a strong, memorable sequence of four to nine digits. **Your PIN protects your device from thieves who might physically steal it.**
For advanced users, Trezor offers an optional feature called a **Passphrase**. This is an extra, self-chosen word or sentence that acts as a 25th word, creating a 'hidden wallet.' Using a passphrase significantly enhances security, but it comes with an immutable responsibility: if you forget the passphrase, your funds are permanently inaccessible, even if you have the original 24-word backup. Treat your passphrase with the same level of care and security as your wallet backup phrase, storing it separately and securely.
Once your PIN is set, the main setup is complete! Trezor Suite will prompt you to name your device and select which cryptocurrencies you wish to activate and display. You can change these settings at any time.
Before transferring a significant amount of assets, perform a small test. Send a minimal amount of cryptocurrency to a receiving address generated by your new Trezor wallet. **Always verify the receiving address on the Trezor device screen**—not just the computer screen—to guard against sophisticated malware that could alter the address displayed on your desktop.
By following these steps meticulously via Trezor.io/start, you successfully transition from relying on third parties to becoming the sole guardian of your digital future. Welcome to the world of truly secure self-custody with Trezor.
*Trezor is a product of SatoshiLabs.*