Trezor.io/start
Welcome to the definitive guide for setting up your new Trezor hardware wallet. By utilizing your device, you are stepping into the world of genuine self-sovereignty over your digital assets. This process is designed for maximum security and ease of use, starting at the official secure portal: Trezor.io/start.
Before connecting your device, thoroughly inspect the physical packaging. Check for any signs of tampering, pre-opened seals, or damage. Your Trezor device is shipped with protective measures designed to confirm its authenticity. If anything looks suspicious, **do not proceed** and contact Trezor support immediately.
Open your preferred secure web browser and navigate directly to the official start page: Trezor.io/start. This is the single, trusted entry point for initializing your device. You will be prompted to download or launch the official companion application, **Trezor Suite**.
Trezor Suite is the dedicated application for managing your assets and device settings. For the highest security and best user experience, it is highly recommended to download the **desktop version**. Follow the on-screen instructions on the Trezor.io/start page to download and install the software on your personal, trusted computer. Once installed, launch the application.
Connect your Trezor hardware wallet to your computer using the supplied cable. Trezor Suite will automatically detect the device and initiate the setup process.
Your new device may not have the latest operating firmware installed. Trezor Suite will guide you to install the necessary, verified firmware. This critical step ensures your device is running the latest, most secure operating system. **Always confirm the firmware installation process exclusively on your Trezor device's screen**, not just on your computer screen.
In Trezor Suite, select the option to **"Create New Wallet."** This process generates a unique, cryptographic master key that controls access to all your funds. This key is never revealed and never leaves the hardware wallet. The following step is the most critical for your security.
You will now be prompted to **Create Backup** (also known as a recovery phrase or seed). Your device screen will display a sequence of 12, 18, or 24 words. This word sequence is the **only backup** of your master key. **Write these words down on the official recovery card provided in your package.**
The final step in the foundation process is setting up your **Personal Identification Number (PIN)**. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access. You will enter this code directly on the Trezor's physical interface (screen or buttons), guided by a randomized grid displayed on your computer. This randomized input protects against keyloggers and screen monitoring. Choose a strong, memorable code—a minimum of 4 digits is required, but a longer code is strongly advised.
With the firmware installed, backup secured, and PIN set, you can now enter Trezor Suite. The application will offer a clean dashboard where you can manage your assets, view accounts, and access security settings.
The Suite allows you to enable or disable the display of different digital asset accounts (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin). Select the asset accounts you intend to use. You can always modify these settings later. Once activated, you can view your **receiving addresses** for each account. **Always verify the receiving address on your physical Trezor screen** to ensure there has been no compromise of your computer software.
For an extreme layer of security, Trezor offers the **passphrase** feature. This is an optional, user-defined word or phrase that acts as an additional layer of protection, generating a completely separate, "hidden" wallet. If you use this, the passphrase must also be kept absolutely private and offline, as it is not part of your original written backup word sequence.
When you are ready to send assets, the process again centers around your Trezor device. You will initiate the transaction in Trezor Suite, but the final, crucial step—**confirming the recipient address and the amount**—must be done by pressing the buttons or tapping the screen on your **physical Trezor device**. This "trusted display" verification is what makes the hardware wallet so secure, ensuring no malicious software on your computer can alter the transaction details without your knowledge.
You have now successfully completed the initial setup of your Trezor hardware wallet. Your digital assets are now protected by the gold standard of offline storage. Welcome to a more secure future in the digital economy.