Trezor.io/Start® — Start Your Device Security

What this guide covers

This walkthrough helps you get your Trezor device out of the box, configured, and secured. It is written for both beginners and experienced users who want a thorough checklist: from initial inspection to firmware updates, PIN & passphrase choices, seed backup, and everyday best practices.

1. Unboxing & inspection

When your Trezor arrives, open the package in a well-lit area. Genuine devices arrive in sealed packaging with tamper-evident stickers. Take a moment to verify the following:

• Box is sealed and shows no signs of tampering.
• Included accessories match the packing list (device, USB cable, recovery seed cards, quick start leaflet).
• Device model and serial (if present) match your order.

If anything looks suspicious, do not connect the device — contact the seller or Trezor support immediately.

2. Prepare your environment

Set up on a clean computer you trust. Avoid public or untrusted machines. Make sure:

• Your operating system is updated.
• Your browser is updated — Trezor Suite works best in Chromium-based browsers or using the official Trezor Suite app.
• You have a stable internet connection for firmware and app verification.

3. First connection & official software

Connect the device to your computer using the included USB cable. The official Trezor experience runs through Trezor Suite or the web-based interface at trezor.io/start. Always navigate to the official domain — bookmark it for future use.

4. Firmware & device verification

Firmware is the trusted code running on the device. During the first setup, the Suite will ask to install the latest firmware if the device is uninitialized or outdated. Always install firmware through the official app — never accept firmware from unknown sources.

• Follow the prompts to install official firmware.
• Every firmware update requires physical confirmation on the device — this is intentional.
• Record the firmware version and verify the update succeeded before proceeding.

If a firmware update fails, disconnect, restart your machine, and try again. Persistent issues should be reported to Trezor support.

5. Create a PIN

The PIN protects access to the device when connected. Choose a PIN that is long, not guessable, and unique. Do not write your PIN on the recovery seed card.

• Choose at least a 6-digit PIN; longer is better.
• Avoid simple sequences (e.g., 123456) or dates that are personally associated with you.
• Keep the PIN secret — the device will allow a limited number of incorrect attempts before imposing delays.

6. Recovery seed — the core of backup security

When you create a wallet, the device generates a recovery seed — a list of words that can restore your funds if the device is lost. This is the single most important element of your security.

During setup, you will be asked to confirm several words from the seed to ensure you copied them correctly. Complete this verification step carefully.

7. Optional passphrase (plausible deniability)

A passphrase is a powerful optional feature that adds a 25th word to your seed. It can create hidden wallets and greatly increases security — but it also adds complexity.

• Use a passphrase only if you understand how it works and can remember it or store it securely.
• Do not use easily discoverable phrases — treat it like a second, longer password.
• Remember: losing the passphrase means losing access to the assets; the passphrase is not stored anywhere on the device.

8. Add your first accounts

Once the device is initialized, you can add cryptocurrency accounts through Trezor Suite. Each account receives addresses that are derived from your seed. Best practices:

• Use a new receiving address for each transaction when possible to maximize privacy.
• Double-check receiving addresses shown in the Suite and on the device screen.

9. Everyday usage & safety checklist

Using your Trezor is straightforward—connect, confirm transactions on the device, and keep your seed safe. Keep these practices in mind:

• Only sign transactions on a physically connected device; never approve transactions remotely.
• Keep firmware up to date but only via the official Suite.
• Do not enter your recovery seed into any website or app.
• Consider a hardware or multi-sig setup for larger holdings.

10. Troubleshooting & loss scenarios

If you lose the device but have your recovery seed and passphrase (if used), you can restore your wallet on a new Trezor device or a compatible wallet. If you lose the recovery seed and the device, funds are likely irrecoverable.

• If your device is stolen: move funds to a new wallet as soon as possible using your seed on a new device.
• If you suspect tampering: stop using the device and contact support.
• If the device is damaged: use the seed to restore on a new device.

11. Advanced features

Trezor devices support advanced features like U2F/WebAuthn, password manager integration, and third-party wallet compatibility. These can be useful but add complexity — evaluate if you need them and understand the security trade-offs.

12. Frequently asked questions

13. Final checklist before you finish

• Device is genuine and untampered.
• Firmware updated through official Suite.
• PIN set and memorized (not written on seed card).
• Recovery seed written down and stored safely.
• Optional passphrase configured if desired and securely stored.