Welcome — why Trezor.io/Start® matters

Trezor.io/Start is the official starting point to securely set up your Trezor hardware wallet, configure Ledger-like protections for your crypto (PIN, recovery seed, firmware checks), and connect safely to Trezor Suite or supported web apps. Follow this guide to go from unboxing to secure transactions with confidence.

[Insert step-by-step screenshot placeholders]

Quick Start — setup in 7 simple steps

1. Inspect packaging & unbox

Ensure the package seal is intact and there are no signs of tampering. Only proceed if the device looks factory-sealed.

2. Go to Trezor.io/Start

Visit trezor.io/start on a secure computer. This page will guide you to download Trezor Suite or connect via web-based flows.

3. Install Trezor Suite & Bridge

Download the official Trezor Suite desktop app (or use the web app if supported). Install Trezor Bridge if prompted so the browser can communicate with your device.

4. Connect your device

Plug your Trezor into your computer with the supplied cable. Follow on-screen prompts to allow the connection — confirm prompts on your device screen.

5. Create a new wallet or restore

Choose create new to initialize a fresh wallet or restore if you already have a recovery phrase. For new wallets, the device will generate your 12/18/24-word recovery seed.

6. Secure your recovery phrase

Write the recovery words on the provided card — never store them as a photo, text file, or online. Consider engraving or storing the phrase in a secure physical location.

7. Finalize & verify

Ledger-like verification: confirm the device shows your wallet addresses and perform a small test transaction to yourself from an exchange or another wallet to verify everything works.

Estimated time: 10–25 minutes depending on experience. Don’t rush the recovery seed step.

Security fundamentals (must-read)

Your Trezor protects private keys in secure hardware. However, security depends on correct setup and safe handling of your recovery phrase. Here are core rules:

  • Never share your recovery phrase. Trezor staff will never ask for it.
  • Use a strong PIN. Set a PIN you can remember but others cannot guess.
  • Keep firmware updated. Firmware updates often include security improvements — apply them only from official Trezor Suite prompts.
  • Verify addresses on-device. Always confirm recipient addresses on the Trezor screen before approving transactions.
Warning: Storing recovery words digitally (cloud, photos, email) is extremely risky. If someone obtains your phrase, they control your funds.

Advanced setup options

Once comfortable, use these advanced features to increase resilience:

  • Passphrase (25th word): Add an extra secret passphrase to create hidden wallets. This adds security but increases complexity — back up passphrases securely.
  • Shamir Backup (SLIP-0039): If your Trezor model supports it, consider splitting your recovery into multiple shares stored across locations.
  • Multiple devices: Use a second hardware wallet as an emergency backup. Store devices in separate secure locations.

Troubleshooting — common issues & fixes

Device not detected

Try a different USB cable or port, ensure Trezor Bridge is running, close other wallet apps, or reboot your computer.

Recovery phrase mismatch

Make sure words are spelled exactly and in the correct order. If you used a passphrase during setup, restoring without it will yield a different wallet.

Firmware update failed

Do not disconnect during updates. If an update fails, follow the official recovery steps on Trezor.io/start or contact support through official channels — do not follow random third-party guides.

Step-by-step checklist before your first transaction

  1. Confirm packaging integrity and unbox in a secure place.
  2. Install Trezor Suite from Trezor.io/start.
  3. Initialize device, set PIN, write recovery phrase offline.
  4. Verify addresses on-device and do a small test transaction.
  5. Store recovery phrase securely and consider additional backups.

Following this checklist reduces the most common setup risks. Treat the recovery phrase as the single most sensitive secret.

FAQ — quick answers

Q: Can I restore my Trezor on any other hardware wallet?
A: Most BIP39/BIP44 compatible wallets can restore Trezor recovery phrases, but always use caution and verify compatibility before restoring to third-party hardware.

Q: What happens if I lose my device?
A: Your funds are safe as long as you have the recovery phrase. Get a new Trezor and restore from your phrase.

Q: Is Trezor Suite required?
A: Trezor Suite is the recommended official app for the best experience, firmware updates, and native support — you can also use some third-party wallets if needed.

Resources & support

Official resources:

Ready to start? Visit Trezor.io/Start and follow the official steps.

This guide complements the official instructions — always prioritize the on-device prompts and official pages.