Congratulations on choosing the world's most trusted hardware wallet! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of setting up your new Trezor® device, from unboxing to making your first secure transaction. The official Trezor.io/start page provides device-specific instructions tailored to your particular model.
Security First: Your Trezor® device provides bank-level security by keeping your private keys completely isolated from internet-connected devices. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure your cryptocurrency assets remain protected against online threats.
Whether you're setting up a Trezor® Model One or the advanced Trezor® Model T, this guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for a seamless initialization process that establishes your cryptocurrency vault with maximum security.
Critical Security Warning: Only purchase Trezor® devices from the official Trezor® website or authorized resellers. Counterfeit devices may contain malware designed to steal your cryptocurrency. Always verify your device's authenticity during setup and never share your recovery seed with anyone.
Trezor® offers two primary setup options: Standard Setup for new users creating a fresh wallet, and Advanced Recovery for restoring an existing wallet using your recovery seed phrase. For most users, we recommend starting with the Standard Setup process.
Connect your Trezor® to your computer using the provided USB cable. For Trezor® Model T, ensure the device has sufficient charge. The device should display a welcome message.
Go to the official setup page at Trezor.io/start and select your device model. The website will automatically detect your device and provide model-specific instructions.
Download and install Trezor Bridge, the essential communication tool that enables secure encrypted connection between your device and web browser. This runs silently in the background.
Your device will prompt you to install the latest firmware. This ensures you have the most recent security updates, bug fixes, and feature enhancements. Never skip firmware updates.
Write down your 12, 18, or 24-word recovery seed in the exact order shown on your device display. This is your master backup - store it securely offline.
Create a PIN code that will be required every time you connect your Trezor® device. The randomized keypad prevents keyloggers from capturing your PIN.
Seed Phrase Security: Your recovery seed is the master key to your cryptocurrency. Anyone with access to these words can access your funds. Never store them digitally, take photos, or type them into any computer. Write them on the provided card and store in multiple secure locations like a safe or safety deposit box.
The pioneering hardware wallet with proven security and reliability.
Setup Tip: Use the two physical buttons to navigate menus and confirm actions during setup.
Premium hardware wallet with color touchscreen and enhanced features.
Setup Tip: The touchscreen allows direct input, making passphrase entry more secure.
If your computer doesn't recognize your Trezor® device:
If firmware installation fails or gets stuck:
If the display isn't working properly:
Important: If you encounter persistent issues, contact official Trezor® support through Trezor.io/support. Never seek help from unofficial channels that may attempt to steal your recovery phrase.
What if I lose my recovery seed?
If you lose your recovery seed and your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, your funds will be permanently inaccessible. There is no way to recover cryptocurrency without the seed phrase. This is why secure backup is critically important. Consider using Shamir Backup on Trezor® Model T for enhanced security.
Can I set up multiple Trezor® devices with the same seed?
Yes, you can restore your wallet on multiple Trezor® devices using the same recovery seed. This creates identical wallets that all control the same funds, which can be useful for backup purposes or having devices in different locations.
What's the difference between Standard and Advanced setup?
Standard setup creates a new wallet with a new seed phrase. Advanced setup allows you to recover an existing wallet using a seed phrase or set up a hidden wallet with a passphrase for additional security through plausible deniability.
How long does the initial setup take?
The complete setup process typically takes 10-20 minutes, depending on your familiarity with the process, internet connection speed for downloading firmware, and the time taken to carefully write down your recovery seed.
Can I interrupt the setup process and continue later?
It's recommended to complete the setup in one session. If interrupted during firmware installation or seed generation, you may need to start over for security reasons. However, once set up, you can disconnect and reconnect your device at any time.
Is my Trezor® device ready to use immediately after setup?
Yes, once setup is complete, your Trezor® is ready to use with Trezor Suite or other compatible wallets. You can immediately begin receiving cryptocurrency to your secure addresses and explore additional features like hidden wallets and U2F authentication.
Congratulations! Your Trezor® device is now set up and ready to secure your cryptocurrency. Here's what to do next to maximize your security and functionality:
Download the Trezor Suite application for the best experience managing your cryptocurrency portfolio with advanced features and enhanced security.
Get Trezor SuiteSend a small amount of cryptocurrency to your Trezor® to verify everything is working correctly and familiarize yourself with the transaction process.
Discover features like hidden wallets, U2F authentication, cryptocurrency staking, and the integrated exchange for seamless trading.