Welcome to Trézor Start – Setup Your Device with Confidence

Congratulations on your acquisition of a Trézor hardware wallet! This page is your definitive starting point. We’ll guide you step by step, enabling you to power on, configure, and securely operate your device. The journey from “out-of-box” to “fully operational and secure” starts here.

Why Choose Trézor?

In a world where digital asset security is paramount, Trézor stands out by design. Built with open-source principles, peer-reviewed hardware, and rigorous cryptographic standards, it places control firmly in your hands. Unlike software-only wallets or custodial systems, Trézor ensures your private keys never leave the device—making it resilient to many attack vectors.

Whether you're safeguarding Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any supported token, Trézor is designed to scale with your needs, offering:

• Transparent, auditable software
• Robust support for thousands of cryptocurrencies via Trézor Suite and third-party wallet integration
• Secure recovery mechanisms (24‑word seed, passphrase support)
• On-device transaction confirmation — no blind signing

Step 1: Unboxing & Visual Inspection

Begin by carefully opening the packaging. Inside, you should find:

• The Trézor hardware device (e.g. Model T, Safe 5, or Safe 3)
• USB‑C to USB cable (or appropriate connector)
• Recovery seed cards (to record your 24‑word mnemonic)
• Quick Start Guide
• Seals or tamper-evident markers

Inspect the package and the device for signs of damage or tampering. Verify that the tamper-evident seals are intact and unbroken. If anything seems off, contact support before proceeding further.

Step 2: Connect & Power Up

Follow these steps to power the device for first use:

1. Plug the USB‑C cable into your Trézor device.
2. Connect the other end to a computer USB port (or USB hub). The device draws a small amount of power from the host.
3. The device’s screen should light up and display a welcome message or prompt to begin.

Do not proceed if the display is blank or corrupted. In that case, try a different cable or USB port. If issues persist, contact Trézor support.

Step 3: Firmware Verification & Upgrade

Security begins with trusted firmware. On first connection, your Trézor may prompt you to install the latest firmware version.

Here’s how the process typically works:

• Open the Trézor Suite app or access the web interface at suite.trezor.io.
• The software will detect your device and check its firmware version.
• If an update is available, you’ll be prompted to download the signed firmware.
• Trézor enforces a cryptographic verification of the firmware before installation.

This check ensures you're running genuine, unmodified firmware. Never skip this step.

Step 4: Initialize & Create a New Wallet

Once firmware is verified, it’s time to create or restore your wallet. For new users, the flow is:

1. Choose “Create New Wallet” on the device interface.
2. The device will generate a 24‑word recovery seed (mnemonic). Carefully transcribe these into the provided recovery cards. Do not store them digitally or online.
3. Confirm the words by selecting them in order when prompted.
4. Optionally, set a passphrase (this acts as a 25th hidden word) and a PIN for device access.

You may choose to restore an existing wallet by entering the 24‑word seed instead of creating a new one. Ensure you only restore from a trusted source in a secure environment.

Step 5: Using Your Trézor Device Securely

With your device initialized, here’s how to perform everyday operations:

Receiving Funds

1. Open Trézor Suite (or compatible wallet app).
2. Select the “Receive” tab for a specific coin (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum).
3. The app displays an address; your device will show the same address. Confirm on-device before sending funds.

Sending Funds

1. In your interface, select “Send” and input recipient address and amount.
2. Review details carefully (address, amount, fees).
3. Your device will display the transaction. Physically confirm on the device to sign.

Software Integration & Advanced Usage

• Use Trézor with external wallets such as Electrum, Exodus, or Wasabi via the “Connect Hardware Wallet” feature.
• Enable coin control, manage multiple accounts, or stake supported assets through Trézor Suite.
• Use advanced features like passphrase, hidden wallets, or Shamir Backup (on supported models).

Step 6: Security Best Practices & Maintenance

Maintaining security over time is as important as the initial setup. Consider the following guidelines:

• Physical security: Keep your device in a secure place, protected from theft or tampering.
• Seed storage: Store your recovery seed offline in multiple, geographically separated locations (e.g. safe, bank deposit box).
• Passphrase usage: Treat a passphrase like a second seed — memorize or record it with equal care.
• Software hygiene: Only download Trézor Suite or firmware updates from the official site. Verify signatures when applicable.
• Connectivity discipline: Use trusted computers and networks. Avoid public or compromised systems.
• Periodic testing: Occasionally restore your seed in a test device to verify viability (without exposing actual funds).
• Watch for anomalies: Unexpected firmware prompts, corrupted display, or device behavior should be treated with caution — consult support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if I lose the hardware device?

You can recover your wallet using your 24‑word seed + optional passphrase on another compatible Trézor or supported wallet. The device itself contains no funds — the blockchain does.

What happens if the firmware update fails?

Trézor’s bootloader is signed and secure. In most cases, you can safely reboot and reinstall. If unresolvable, contact support with your device’s serial number (never share your seed).

Can I use the device offline?

The Trézor device itself requires connection for initial setup and transaction signing. However, you can generate unsigned transactions offline and sign them securely.