Trezor.io/Start

Step‑By‑Step Setup Guide

Welcome! This guide walks you through the process of getting started with your Trezor hardware wallet using the official Trezor.io/Start onboarding page. By following these steps, you can securely initialize your device, protect your crypto assets, and avoid common pitfalls.

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

• Your Trezor device (Model One or Model T).
• The USB cable supplied with the device (or compatible one).
• A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) with a reliable internet connection.
• A quiet, private space to set up the device without interruptions.
• Pen and paper (or the official recovery seed cards) to write down the recovery seed. Avoid digital storage for the seed phrase.

Step 1: Go to the Official Start Page

Open your web browser and navigate to trezor.io/start. It's crucial to verify that the URL is correct and uses HTTPS. Bookmark it or ensure you type it manually so you avoid phishing sites. This site provides the official downloads, instructions, and guides. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Step 2: Choose Your Device Model

Select whether you have a Trezor Model One or a Trezor Model T. The instructions and firmware may differ slightly depending on which model you own. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Step 3: Download and Install Trezor Suite (and Bridge if Needed)

1. **Download Trezor Suite** – This is the official software for managing your Trezor wallet. It’s available for desktop platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux); there is also a web version. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
2. **Optional: Install Trezor Bridge** – If your browser or OS does *not* support WebUSB (common in browsers like Firefox or certain setups), Bridge is a background service that enables secure USB communication. The Start page will prompt you if Bridge is needed. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
3. Follow the installation prompts. For desktop, this means running the installer. For the web version, you may just open in browser (once Bridge is installed if required). Ensure that you allow any required permissions for USB access. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Step 4: Connect Your Device and Install Firmware

1. Plug in your Trezor device using the USB cable to your computer. Wait for it to be detected by Trezor Suite. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
2. If the firmware is missing or out of date, the Suite will prompt you to install or update the firmware. Only accept firmware updates signed by Trezor / SatoshiLabs. Confirm fingerprints if asked. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
3. Once firmware is installed and verified, the device will be ready to initialize your wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Step 5: Create or Recover a Wallet

You’ll have two options:

• Create New Wallet: Start fresh with a brand new seed phrase.
• Recover Existing Wallet: If you have a recovery seed (from a previous Trezor or compatible wallet), you can restore your wallet using that seed. Make sure you're doing this with the correct phrase and in a secure place. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Step 6: Generate & Secure Your Recovery Seed

1. After choosing to create a new wallet, the Trezor device will display a recovery seed: typically 12, 18, or 24 words depending on model or settings. Write down **every** word in the correct order. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
2. Use the supplied recovery seed card or paper. Do **not** take a photo, do **not** store the seed phrase in any cloud service or digital note. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
3. Store the written seed in a safe place: consider a fireproof, waterproof safe or multiple backups in separate secure locations. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Step 7: Set Your PIN (and Optional Passphrase)

To protect access to your Trezor device, you will set a PIN. This PIN will be required each time you connect your device to manage assets. Make sure it is strong but memorable. Avoid simple or repeated digits (e.g. “1234”, “0000”). :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

Optionally, you can enable a passphrase. This acts as an extra word (sometimes called a “25th word”) that creates a hidden wallet. Use this only if you understand the trade‑offs: if you lose the passphrase, you lose access to that wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

Step 8: Verifying Everything & Final Setup Checks

• Make sure your device is recognized by Trezor Suite with all settings correct (firmware up to date, PIN active).
• Check that the recovery seed is safely stored and that you can read it clearly in order.
• Ensure that the address shown when you do a “Receive” operation matches what is shown on the Trezor device screen. This prevents address substitution attacks. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
• Try sending a small test transaction (a small amount) first. This helps you verify the send flow and address confirmation. If that succeeds, you’re ready. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

What You Can Do After Setup

Once your Trezor is set up, you can use Trezor Suite to:

• Receive cryptocurrency: generate receive addresses inside Suite, verify on‑device. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• Send cryptocurrency: enter recipient address, amount, adjust fees if needed, and confirm on the device. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Manage multiple coins / tokens: Trezor supports a wide variety of coins/tokens. You can add multiple accounts and track balances. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
• Track your portfolio, transaction history, labels, etc. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• Explore privacy & security features: passphrase wallets, optional advanced features. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}

Safety Tips & Common Pitfalls

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• If your browser doesn’t detect the Trezor device, check whether you need to install Trezor Bridge. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
• Ensure your USB cable and ports are properly connected and working. Try different ports or cables if needed. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}
• Make sure your computer meets OS requirements and is updated. Sometimes driver or permission issues (esp. Linux) can block access. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}
• If the device displays “Go to trezor.io/start”, it likely means it needs firmware installation or recovery. Follow the onscreen and Suite instructions. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}

Final Thoughts

Setting up a Trezor wallet by following the official Trezor.io/Start path ensures you're doing so in a secure, verified manner. It might seem like a lot of steps up front, but each is important to preserving the safety of your crypto. Once everything is in place, you have full ownership and control over your assets, and the peace of mind that your private keys are never exposed.

If you run into any trouble, check the official Trezor support resources or community forums. Don’t rush the process—security is part of the value Trezor was built for.