Trézor.io/Start® | Starting Up Your Device | Trézor®

Why this guide?

Whether you’re brand new to hardware wallets or returning to set up a second device, getting the first-start process right is vital. The goal here is to make the start-up process safe, simple, and visually clear. We’ll use headings from H1 to H5 so you can scan quickly and find exact steps and explanations.

Quick checklist before you start

Step-by-step: Starting up your Trézor device

1. Unboxing and first impressions

Open the box carefully. A genuine Trézor device will usually include the device, a USB cable, recovery seed card(s), and documentation. Inspect packaging for tampering. If anything looks amiss, stop and contact support before connecting.

What to look for (H4)

Seals intact, no scratches on the screen, accessories present. Keep the box — you may need it for warranty or returns.

2. Connect to a computer or phone

Connect with the supplied cable. Use an official browser and the official setup site or desktop app according to Trézor’s instructions. Always type the URL yourself — don’t click links from emails or search results.

Tip (H5): Always verify URL

Type trézor.io/start or the official domain exactly as provided in documentation. Phishing sites mimic real addresses — manual typing mitigates that risk.

3. Initialize the device

The device will prompt you to create a new wallet or restore an existing one. For first-time use, choose Create a new wallet. The Trézor will generate a recovery phrase: write this down on the physical recovery card and store it in a safe place.

Recovery phrase best practices

• Write the words in order, exactly as shown.
• Use the supplied recovery card or a metal backup (preferred for long term durability).
• Never photograph or store your seed phrase in cloud storage or on a connected device.

4. Choose a PIN

Set a strong PIN when prompted. A PIN protects your device if it’s lost or stolen. Follow on-device prompts to confirm the PIN and avoid simple sequences (1234, 0000) or easily guessed dates.

What a strong PIN looks like

At least 6 digits, avoid repeated patterns, and do not share it. The PIN is entered on the device screen (not your computer) — this helps protect against keyloggers.

5. Software install and client pairing

Finish setup by installing the official companion app or connecting to the official web client. The device will display a fingerprint/ID to confirm the pair; verify these match.

On software: only the official versions

Install software from sources you trust — the vendor’s official site or app stores. When in doubt, use the vendor’s 'Start' page on the device’s package to find the correct download link.

Security posture: what to do next

Keep your recovery phrase safe

Behind every secure wallet is a secure recovery. Store copies in geographically separate safe places (e.g., a home safe and a safety deposit box) to reduce single-point-of-failure risks.

Consider a metal backup

Paper can burn or degrade. Metal backups are fireproof and corrosion-resistant - a small investment for long-term peace of mind.

Additional hardening strategies

• Use a passphrase (if supported) to create a two-factor seed (seed + passphrase).
• Split your seed: consider Shamir backup (if your device supports it) or multisig arrangements for large holdings.
• Practice recovering from your backup in a controlled, offline environment before relying on it in an emergency.

Troubleshooting common startup issues

Device not recognized by computer

Try different USB ports, and preferably a direct port (avoid hubs). Ensure you installed the official driver/software. Rebooting the computer and using the latest browser version often fixes connectivity problems.

Device stuck during initialization

Disconnect and reconnect. If the device repeatedly fails on the same step, consult official support and avoid forcing non-documented recoveries — you might risk data loss.

Forgot the PIN

If you forget your PIN, most hardware wallets require a reset and restore from seed. That’s why safe storage of the recovery phrase is critical. Do not attempt hacks or third-party 'recovery' services — they are commonly scams.

When to contact support

If you suspect a compromised device, tampered packaging, or persistent software errors, contact official Trézor support channels. Provide device serial and photos if asked, but never share your recovery phrase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I set up the device offline?

Many devices allow initializing entirely using only the device screen (i.e., generate seed without being online). However, pairing with a host for full functionality will require a computer or phone at some point.

Should I back up to the cloud?

No. Never store your recovery phrase in cloud storage. Cloud storage, screenshots, or emailing the seed are common vectors for theft.

What is the difference between seed and passphrase?

A seed (recovery phrase) is the fundamental secret that regenerates your wallet keys. A passphrase acts as an additional secret — think of it as a 25th word — that makes the recovered wallet different and more secure if used properly.

Example scenario (H4)

If you use the same seed with two different passphrases, you derive two distinct wallets. Do not forget your passphrase — losing it means losing access to the associated funds.

Best practices for everyday use

Verification before sending

Always verify recipient addresses on the hardware device's screen, not just on your computer. This prevents malware from substituting addresses during a transaction.

Small tests first

Send a small test amount the first time you transact, confirm receipt, then proceed with larger transfers.

Regular audits

Schedule periodic checks of backups and device health. Replace or refresh backups every few years depending on the media you used.

Useful office links and documentation (10 curated links)

If you need printable checklists, office templates for recording seed words, or digital workplace resources, the links below are helpful starting points.

Use templates from these sites to craft a paper recovery sheet, an emergency contact protocol, and a documented backup schedule for your stored recovery phrase. Keep those documents offline and printed — do not store the seed phrase within them, only the storage location metadata (e.g., "Safe deposit box #3, Bank X").

Printable checklist (copy to an office doc)

Below is a compact checklist you can paste into any office template and print. Consider laminating or storing it alongside your recovery backup (without the actual words!).

[ ] Device unboxed — seals intact
[ ] Accessories present (cable, recovery card)
[ ] Device powered and connected
[ ] PIN set (do not record PIN)
[ ] Recovery phrase written on paper/metal backup
[ ] Recovery phrase verified by restoring to test device
[ ] Backups stored in 2 separate secure locations
[ ] Software installed from official site
[ ] Small test transaction completed
[ ] Device firmware & app updates scheduled
      

Advanced topics (a quick primer)

Passphrase safety and advanced backups

If you plan to use a passphrase (sometimes called a 25th word), store the passphrase separately and treat it with the same or greater security as your seed.

Multisignature alternatives

For high-value holdings, multisig setups distribute signing authority across multiple devices/people. This reduces single-point-of-failure risk and can be combined with hardware wallets for safe custody.

Note on complexity (H4)

Advanced setups increase complexity. If you’re not comfortable, seek expert help and test thoroughly before moving significant funds.

Final words: slow down, be deliberate

Setting up a hardware wallet is a moment where care pays off forever. Take your time, follow the steps, and keep your recovery phrases offline and safe. If anything feels off at any stage — device behavior, packaging, or software — pause and verify with official sources.

Emergency contacts

Keep a list of official contact channels for vendor support and your own trusted legal/financial advisors. Never share your seed phrase with support personnel — reputable support will never ask for it.