Trézor.io/Start® | Getting Started | TreZor® (Official)

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— 4 min read

Introduction

Trezor® hardware wallets are among the most trusted tools for securely storing and managing cryptocurrencies. Designed to keep your private keys offline, Trezor devices protect your digital assets from malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access. This guide walks you through the complete setup process, explains essential security concepts, and provides best practices for using a Trezor wallet safely and confidently.

This is an educational setup and usage guide intended to help users understand the standard Trezor onboarding process and daily operation.

What Is a Trezor Hardware Wallet?

A Trezor hardware wallet is a physical device that stores your cryptocurrency private keys in a secure, isolated environment. Unlike software wallets or exchanges, your private keys never leave the device. Transactions are signed internally, reducing the risk of theft even if your computer is compromised.

Popular Trezor models include:

  • Trezor Model One
  • Trezor Model T

Both models support a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many ERC-20 tokens.

Before You Begin: What You Need

Before starting the setup, make sure you have:

  1. A new, unopened Trezor device
  2. A computer with internet access
  3. A USB cable (usually included)
  4. A pen and the recovery seed card included in the box
  5. A private, distraction-free environment

Never set up your wallet in public or where cameras can record your screen or hands.

Unboxing and Authenticity Check

When you open the box:

  • Ensure the packaging is intact and untampered
  • Check that the holographic seal (Model One) or packaging security features are intact
  • Confirm the device shows no signs of prior use

If anything looks suspicious, do not continue with setup.

Connecting Your Trezor Device

  1. Plug your Trezor into your computer using the USB cable
  2. The device screen will power on and display setup instructions
  3. Follow the on-screen prompts to begin initialization

At this stage, your Trezor does not contain any private keys or firmware.

Installing Firmware

Trezor devices ship without firmware for security reasons.

  • You will be prompted to install official firmware
  • Confirm the firmware installation directly on the device screen
  • Never install firmware from unofficial sources

Once installed, the device will reboot and be ready for wallet creation.

Creating a New Wallet

After firmware installation, you will choose to:

  • Create a new wallet, or
  • Recover an existing wallet using a recovery seed

For new users, select Create new wallet.

Recovery Seed: The Most Important Step

Your recovery seed is a list of 12, 18, or 24 words generated by your Trezor. These words are the only backup of your wallet.

Key rules:

  • Write the words down in the exact order shown
  • Never take photos or screenshots
  • Never store them digitally
  • Never share them with anyone

If your device is lost, damaged, or stolen, the recovery seed allows you to restore your funds on another Trezor or compatible wallet.

Take your time during this step. Accuracy matters.

Confirming the Recovery Seed

After writing down the seed, the device will ask you to confirm selected words from the list. This ensures you recorded them correctly.

Only proceed once you are certain your recovery seed is accurate and safely stored.

Setting a PIN Code

Next, you will create a PIN code to protect your device.

  • The PIN prevents unauthorized physical access
  • The device uses a randomized keypad layout to resist keylogging
  • Choose a PIN that is hard to guess but easy for you to remember

Entering the wrong PIN multiple times increases the delay between attempts, protecting against brute-force attacks.

Optional: Adding a Passphrase

Advanced users can enable a passphrase, sometimes called the “25th word.”

  • A passphrase creates hidden wallets derived from your seed
  • Each unique passphrase opens a different wallet
  • Losing the passphrase means losing access to that wallet permanently

This feature significantly increases security but requires careful handling.

Accessing the Trezor Wallet Interface

Once setup is complete, you can access your wallet interface to:

  • View balances
  • Receive cryptocurrency
  • Send transactions
  • Manage accounts and settings

Always verify transaction details on the Trezor device screen before confirming.

Receiving Cryptocurrency

To receive funds:

  1. Select the cryptocurrency account
  2. Generate a receiving address
  3. Verify the address on the Trezor device screen
  4. Share the verified address with the sender

Verification on the device ensures the address has not been altered by malware.

Sending Cryptocurrency

When sending funds:

  1. Enter the recipient address and amount
  2. Review transaction details on your computer
  3. Carefully verify the same details on the Trezor screen
  4. Confirm the transaction on the device

The transaction is signed inside the hardware wallet, keeping your private keys secure.

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Trezor supports hundreds of coins and tokens, including:

  • Bitcoin
  • Ethereum
  • Litecoin
  • Cardano (model-dependent)
  • ERC-20 tokens

Support may vary by model and firmware version.

Updating Firmware Safely

Firmware updates improve security and add features.

Best practices:

  • Only update when prompted by the official interface
  • Verify update instructions on the device screen
  • Never disconnect the device during an update

Your funds remain safe during firmware updates as long as you have your recovery seed.

Common Security Tips

  • Never share your recovery seed or PIN
  • Beware of phishing websites and fake support messages
  • Do not trust anyone asking you to “verify” your wallet
  • Keep your device firmware up to date
  • Use a passphrase if you hold significant funds

Trezor will never ask for your recovery seed online.

What to Do If Your Device Is Lost or Damaged

If your Trezor is lost, stolen, or broken:

  1. Obtain a new Trezor or compatible wallet
  2. Choose the recovery option
  3. Enter your recovery seed securely
  4. Restore access to your funds

Anyone without the recovery seed and PIN cannot access your assets.

Long-Term Storage Best Practices

For long-term holders:

  • Store your recovery seed in a fireproof and waterproof location
  • Consider using metal seed storage
  • Keep multiple backups in separate secure locations
  • Avoid frequent device handling if not necessary

Cold storage is most effective when paired with careful physical security.

Final Thoughts

A Trezor hardware wallet provides a high level of security for managing cryptocurrency when used correctly. The setup process emphasizes personal responsibility, especially when handling the recovery seed. By following best practices and remaining vigilant against scams, you can confidently protect your digital assets for years to come.

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