Getting Started with Your Trezor® Hardware Wallet

Getting Started with Your Trezor® Hardware Wallet | Trezor.io/Start

Overview

The Trezor® hardware wallet is a secure device designed to safely store and manage cryptocurrencies offline. Unlike software wallets, it protects your private keys from online threats, malware, and hacks. Trezor is suitable for beginners and experienced users, offering a simple, intuitive interface while maintaining top-level security.

Getting started with your Trezor wallet involves unboxing, setting up the device, backing up your recovery seed, and connecting it to supported applications and platforms. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to ensure a safe and smooth setup.

Unboxing Your Trezor Wallet

When you receive your Trezor wallet, ensure the package is intact and tamper-proof. Genuine Trezor devices come in secure packaging that indicates if it has been opened.

Package Contents: Your Trezor device, USB cable, recovery seed card, and user manual.
Check for Tampering: The package should not show signs of damage or tampering. If you notice anything suspicious, contact Trezor support immediately.
Familiarize Yourself: Read the manual and locate the buttons, display screen, and USB connection port.

Ensuring authenticity before setup is critical for security. Only purchase Trezor devices from official sources or authorized resellers.

Initial Setup

Follow these steps to set up your Trezor wallet safely:

Connect Device: Use the provided USB cable to connect the Trezor wallet to your computer.
Visit Trezor.io/Start: Open your browser and navigate to the official Trezor start page for guidance and firmware installation.
Install Firmware: If your device is new, follow the prompts to install the latest firmware. Never use a Trezor device with missing or outdated firmware.
Create a PIN: Choose a secure PIN directly on your device. Avoid easily guessable numbers like birthdays or repetitive digits.
Write Down Recovery Seed: Your device will generate a 12–24 word recovery seed. Record it on the provided card and store it securely offline. This seed is essential for recovering your wallet if the device is lost or damaged.
Confirm Recovery Seed: Verify your recovery seed by entering words as prompted by the device.
Connect to Trezor Suite: Download and open Trezor Suite, or connect to supported web wallets for managing cryptocurrency assets.

Backup & Recovery

The recovery seed is the most important part of your wallet security. It allows you to restore access to your cryptocurrencies in case the device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Store Offline: Never store the seed digitally. Write it on paper or metal backup for long-term durability.
Multiple Copies: Consider storing backup copies in different secure locations to prevent loss.
Never Share: Your recovery seed is private. Sharing it compromises your wallet’s security.
Test Recovery: Optionally, test recovery on a secondary device to ensure you can restore your wallet properly.

Using Your Trezor Wallet

Once set up, your Trezor wallet can be used to manage cryptocurrencies securely:

Send & Receive: Generate addresses and send/receive cryptocurrencies safely via Trezor Suite or supported web wallets.
Check Balances: View your balances in Trezor Suite for supported coins and tokens.
Integrate dApps: Connect to decentralized applications securely using Trezor Bridge® for signing transactions.
Multi-Currency Support: Trezor supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, and hundreds of other coins and tokens.
Transaction Verification: Always confirm transactions on the device itself to prevent phishing or malware attacks.

Security Tips

Firmware Updates: Keep your device firmware up to date to benefit from the latest security improvements.
Official Sources Only: Download Trezor Suite and apps from the official website to avoid phishing attacks.
Secure PIN & Passphrase: Use a strong PIN and optional passphrase for enhanced security.
Physical Safety: Store your device in a safe location, away from unauthorized access.
Never Share Recovery Seed: Treat your recovery seed as the most sensitive information.
Use Trezor Bridge®: Securely connect your device to web wallets and dApps without exposing private keys.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Trezor?

Trezor is a hardware wallet designed to store cryptocurrency private keys securely offline, protecting them from hacks and malware.

How do I set up my Trezor wallet?

Connect your device to a computer, install firmware, create a PIN, and record your recovery seed. Then, connect to Trezor Suite or supported wallets for crypto management.

Can I recover my wallet if I lose my Trezor?

Yes, using your recovery seed, you can restore your wallet on a new Trezor device or compatible hardware wallet.

Is Trezor safe for beginners?

Yes, Trezor is designed with a user-friendly interface while providing top-level security suitable for beginners and experts.

Which cryptocurrencies are supported?

Trezor supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, and hundreds of other cryptocurrencies and tokens. Check Trezor.io for the full list of supported coins.

What is Trezor Bridge®?

Trezor Bridge® is software that securely connects your Trezor device to web wallets and decentralized applications for safe transaction signing.

Can I use my Trezor offline?

Yes, your private keys always remain offline. Trezor allows signing transactions securely without exposing keys to the internet.