Trezor Start Guide — Beginner’s Wallet Setup

Quick Overview

This guide walks you through the essential steps to set up a Trezor hardware wallet: unpacking, initializing, creating a PIN, writing down your recovery phrase, and making your first backup. Follow each step carefully — hardware wallets are the safest way to store private keys when used correctly.

What you'll do

Unbox & inspect. Make sure the packaging is sealed and the device looks undamaged. Verify you received an authentic device from an authorized vendor and that no protective stickers or tamper-evidence are missing.
Go to the official start page. Use a trusted browser and visit the official setup page (usually provided by the vendor). Follow the on-screen prompts rather than third-party guides or random videos.
Connect the device. Plug your Trezor into your computer using the supplied cable. Follow on-device instructions to start. The device screen will confirm interactions — always read the device display, not just your computer screen.
Create a PIN. Choose a secure PIN you can remember. The device will prompt for the PIN to unlock it; input it using the device's buttons when asked. Avoid simple or easily guessable PINs.
Generate & record recovery seed. The device will generate a recovery phrase (usually 12–24 words). Write these words on the supplied recovery card and store them in a safe, offline place. Do not photograph, screenshot, or store the phrase on a connected device.
Confirm the recovery phrase. To ensure you copied it correctly, the device will ask you to confirm one or more words. Complete the confirmation on-device.
Create a test transaction. Add a small amount of cryptocurrency to your wallet and send it back to yourself to verify everything works as expected before moving larger sums.

Tip: Always validate addresses on the Trezor screen before sending funds. The software may display an address, but the device shows the verified address that the private key controls.

Security best practices

Treat your recovery phrase like the key to a safe deposit box. Anyone who has it can restore and access your funds. A few short, crucial rules:

Never share your recovery phrase or type it into a website or app.
Keep backups in separate secure locations (e.g., safe, safety deposit box).
Use a metal backup plate if you want extra fire and water resistance for the words.
Beware of phishing sites — always confirm you’re on the correct official URL.

Warning: Do not enter your recovery phrase into any device connected to the internet. If you suspect your recovery phrase was exposed, move funds to a new wallet and create a new device/recovery immediately.

Troubleshooting & common questions

Device not recognized? Try a different USB cable or port. Avoid USB hubs for initial setup and use the cable that came with the device if possible. Reboot the computer if needed.

Lost recovery phrase? If you lose it and still have device access, create a new wallet and transfer funds. If you lose both the device and the recovery, funds are permanently inaccessible.

Software updates? Keep device firmware and companion software up to date — but only install updates from official sources. Read update release notes and verify authenticity when prompted by the device.

Danger: Never accept help from strangers asking for remote access to your computer or wallet. Legitimate support will never ask for your recovery phrase or private keys.

After setup — routine hygiene

Once your wallet is initialized and secured, incorporate these habits: regularly check firmware and app updates, verify incoming addresses on the device, and store a secondary backup of your recovery phrase separately from the primary one. Consider using passphrases (an optional extra word added to your recovery) only if you understand the increased complexity and backup responsibility.