Step 1: Unboxing and Inspection
Before you even navigate to trezor.io/start, take a moment to inspect your package. Trezor devices come with a holographic seal on the USB port (for Trezor Model One) or across the box opening (for Trezor Model T and Safe 3). If this seal appears tampered with, broken, or missing, do not use the device. Contact Trezor support immediately. Security starts with the physical integrity of your hardware.
Step 2: Connecting Your Device
Once you've verified the packaging, use the USB cable provided in the box to connect your Trezor to your computer. The device screen should light up, displaying a welcome logo or a lock icon. At this stage, your computer might install basic drivers, but the real interaction happens through the Trezor Suite.
Step 3: Navigating to Trezor.io/start
Open your preferred web browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Brave are recommended for their security features). Type trezor.io/start into the address bar. Be very careful of phishing sites—always verify the domain name. The official page will prompt you to download the Trezor Suite desktop application, which is the interface for managing your wallet.
Step 4: Installing Trezor Suite
Download the version of Trezor Suite appropriate for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). There is also a web version available, but the desktop application is generally recommended for better security and performance. Once installed, open the application and connect your Trezor device again if prompted.
Step 5: Firmware Installation
Your new Trezor device usually comes without firmware installed. This is a security feature to ensure the latest software is loaded directly from the official server. Trezor Suite will detect your device and ask to install the latest firmware. Click "Install Firmware" and wait for the process to complete. Do not disconnect your device during this process.
Step 6: Creating a New Wallet
After the firmware update, you will be presented with two options: "Create new wallet" or "Recover wallet". Since this is a new setup, select Create new wallet.
You will then choose between a "Standard Seed Backup" (12 or 24 words) or "Shamir Backup" (Model T only). For most users, the Standard Backup is sufficient and highly secure.
Step 7: The Recovery Seed (Crucial Step)
This is the most important part of the process. Your Trezor will generate a unique sequence of words known as the Recovery Seed. Write these words down on the recovery seed cards provided in the box.
- NEVER take a photo of your recovery seed.
- NEVER type your recovery seed into a computer or phone.
- NEVER store your recovery seed in a cloud service or password manager.
Your recovery seed is the only way to recover your funds if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Treat it like cash or jewelry.
Step 8: Setting a PIN
To protect your device from unauthorized physical access, you must set a PIN code. This PIN will be required every time you connect your Trezor to a computer. Choose a strong PIN that is not easily guessable (avoid 1234 or 0000). The Trezor Model One uses a blind matrix entry method on your computer screen for added security, while the Model T and Safe 3 allow you to enter it directly on the touchscreen.
Step 9: Finalizing Setup
Once your seed is backed up and verified, and your PIN is set, your device is ready! You can now name your device to personalize it. Trezor Suite will open the dashboard, showing your portfolio (currently empty). You can now start receiving Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other supported cryptocurrencies.