How to Set Up Your Trézor.io/start® | Starting Up Your Device

Overview: Clear, step-by-step setup for your Trezor hardware wallet using the Trezor Suite and official resources. Includes safety tips for backups, firmware, and recovery.

1 — What you’ll need (before you begin)

Essential items

Quick safety reminder

Always use official downloads from trezor.io. Never share your wallet backup (formerly "recovery seed") with anyone or store it digitally. Trezor recommends keeping backups offline and physical. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

2 — Download and install Trezor Suite

Why Trezor Suite?

Trezor Suite is the official desktop/web app for initializing your device, managing coins, updating firmware, and verifying transactions. For the cleanest experience, download the desktop app; the web app is an alternative.

Steps

  1. Visit trezor.io/start and choose Download or Continue in browser.
  2. Install the desktop app if you prefer a local application; otherwise open the web app and follow the prompts in your browser. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
  3. Allow the app to install any required drivers if prompted, and opt in to update checks for security (recommended).

3 — Connect your device & install firmware

First connection

Plug in your Trezor with the provided cable. The device screen will guide you. The Suite will typically detect the device and, if required, prompt you to install or update firmware.

Firmware notes

Always install official firmware updates shown in Trezor Suite — firmware updates patch security issues and add improvements. Follow on-screen + on-device confirmations to complete the update safely. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

4 — Create a new wallet (initial setup)

Step-by-step

  1. Choose Create new wallet in Trezor Suite when prompted.
  2. Set a device PIN (if your device supports a PIN). This prevents local physical access to your Trezor without confirmation.
  3. Write down your wallet backup as instructed by the device. Use the recommended number of words (e.g., default 24 on some devices) and store the backup offline and in multiple safe places if desired.

Best practice

Never photograph, screenshot or save your wallet backup digitally. Consider a metal backup solution (e.g., Trezor Keep Metal) for long-term storage. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

5 — Restoring or recovering an existing wallet

If you already have a wallet backup

Choose Recover wallet during setup. Enter the number of words your backup used and type them exactly when prompted. The Suite and device walk you through the process step by step. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Important

If you suspect your written backup has been exposed, move funds to a new wallet with a newly created backup as soon as possible.

6 — Post-setup: verify & secure

Verify device authenticity

Use the Suite’s verification and check for official packaging tamper-evidence. Also confirm the device fingerprint/firmware signature when prompted.

Additional hardening

7 — Day-to-day use

Sending and receiving crypto

Always confirm addresses on the device display (not just the app). Trezor Suite shows transactions and the device requires manual approval — this is your last line of defense against malware.

Backups & moving funds

Before moving large sums, test with a small transaction. Keep multiple copies of your physical backup in geographically separated secure locations.

8 — Troubleshooting & support

Common fixes

Get help

Use official Trezor support pages, guides, and blog posts for verified instructions and announcements. Avoid third-party downloads or advice that recommends exposing your wallet backup. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}