Trezor.io/Start — Starting Up Your Trezor Device

Quick overview — what this guide covers

This guide walks you through the official setup flow starting at Trezor.io/start, how to use Trezor Suite, installing firmware, creating a PIN and recovery seed, optional passphrase use, and practical tips for safe cold-storage of Bitcoin, Ethereum and other assets. Follow official instructions and double-check on the manufacturer pages when in doubt. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

1) Start at the official site: Trezor.io/start

1. Open a browser and go to trezor.io/start. This page directs you to download the official Trezor Suite app (desktop or mobile) and official setup instructions. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
2. Do not use unverified links or email attachments — always navigate by typing the address or using a bookmark you created after confirming the site is legitimate.

2) Download and open Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is the manufacturer’s official application for managing your Trezor device and assets. Download the desktop app for the smoothest setup; the web flow may prompt you for a companion install if needed. Trezor Suite guides you through firmware installation, device checks, wallet creation, and account management. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

3) Unbox, connect, and install firmware

• Unbox your device and inspect the packaging for tamper signs. If anything looks altered, contact official support. Official guidance highlights authentic device checks during setup. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Connect Trezor to your computer using the supplied cable. The Suite will typically prompt to install device firmware — install it. New devices commonly ship without firmware preinstalled, so the first step will often be firmware installation. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

4) Create a PIN — protect device access

After firmware is installed, set a PIN directly on the device. The PIN prevents unauthorized physical use; choose something memorable yet not easily guessed. Do not store the PIN digitally in plain text. If you forget the PIN, the device can be wiped and recovered with your recovery seed, so secure that seed carefully. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

5) Generate and secure your recovery seed (the single most important step)

The device will generate a recovery seed (usually 12–24 words depending on model/options). Write the words exactly in order and store them offline in at least two secure, geographically separated locations. The recovery seed is the only backup to restore funds if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged — keep it secret and offline. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

6) (Optional) Passphrase — advanced users only

A passphrase acts like an extra word added to your recovery seed, creating an additional hidden wallet. It provides strong protection and plausible deniability for advanced users, but if lost it permanently locks the funds in that wallet. Only use a passphrase if you understand the responsibility and have a secure plan for storing it. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

7) Add accounts and manage assets in Trezor Suite

Use Trezor Suite to add Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other coin accounts. For every transaction, verify the receiving address and transaction details on the device screen before approving — the hardware device is the source of truth for what you are signing. Consider splitting large holdings across multiple devices/accounts for redundancy and safety. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Best practices for cold-storage & daily use

• Keep the seed offline and backed up on durable media (metal plates, safe deposit box, home safe).
• Only use official software (Trezor Suite) and official firmware updates. Avoid third-party installers or browser extensions during setup.
• When sending funds, confirm details on the device screen — never rely solely on the computer display.
• Practice a small test recovery to validate your seed before moving large sums.

Troubleshooting & support

• If Trezor Suite does not detect your device: try another USB port/cable, restart the Suite, or reboot your computer. If problems persist, consult official guides and support via Trezor.io/start. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
• If firmware update fails: follow on-screen instructions; do not unplug mid-update. Contact official support if the device becomes unresponsive. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Official resources

Use these official pages for downloads, model-specific guides and support:

• Trezor.io/start — official quickstart & downloads. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Trezor Suite — official desktop & web app. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• Trezor Guides — model-specific setup & recovery. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}