Prerequisites
Before you begin at trezor.io/start, gather a few things to keep the flow smooth.
Hardware
- Trezor device (Model T or Model One)
- Original USB cable
- Offline‑friendly computer (no shared/public PCs)
Environment
- Quiet, private space
- Paper and pen (for recovery seed)
- Optional: fire/water‑resistant seed storage
Mindset
- Never photograph your seed
- Verify URLs and downloads
- Slow is smooth; smooth is safe
At‑a‑Glance Slides
Use these slide‑style cards to present the process in a meeting or workshop.
Unbox & Inspect
Check tamper‑evident seals, match contents, and visually attest the device enclosure.
Go to Trezor.io/start
Navigate via the address bar, not search. Confirm the certificate lock icon.
Install Trezor Suite
Download from the official page, verify checksum/signature if available.
Update Firmware
Apply the latest firmware only through Suite. Do not unplug while flashing.
Create Wallet
Initialize, generate a recovery seed, and lock down your PIN.
Verify Address
Always cross‑check receive addresses on the device screen.
Backup & Test
Write seed clearly, do a dry‑run recovery test on a spare device or test wallet.
Harden Security
Enable passphrase, auto‑lock, and label your device distinctly.
Step‑by‑Step Setup
- Unbox & verify — Inspect packaging and seals. If anything looks altered, contact support before connecting.
- Browse to
trezor.io/start
— Type the URL directly. Confirm HTTPS and certificate details. - Download Trezor Suite — Pick your OS (Windows/macOS/Linux). Avoid third‑party mirrors.
- Connect your Trezor — Use the original cable and a trusted USB port. No hubs during setup.
- Install/Update firmware — Let Suite guide you. Keep the device powered and steady.
- Create a new wallet — Follow on‑device prompts; set a strong PIN (no birthdays, no repeats).
- Record the recovery seed — Write each word legibly, in order. No cameras, no clouds.
- Optional: enable passphrase — Adds a secret “25th word” (memorize well; losing it locks funds).
- Fund & verify — Receive small test funds first; verify the address on the device screen before sharing.
- Lock it down — Turn on auto‑lock, rename the device, and store your seed in a safe location.
Security Essentials
Simple habits that drastically reduce risk.
- Beware seed‑stealers: No support agent will ever ask for your words.
- Air‑gap your backup: Store offline in multiple, geographically separated places.
- Use a passphrase: Thwarts physical theft if the PIN is compromised.
- Device address attestation: Trust the device screen, not the computer screen.
- Keep Suite updated: Security patches and feature hardening ship regularly.
Quick Checklist
- ✅ Verified URL and certificate
- ✅ Firmware up‑to‑date
- ✅ PIN + passphrase configured
- ✅ Seed written and stored safely
- ✅ Test transaction confirmed on‑device
Extra Vocabulary (New Words)
Harden • Attest • Snapshot • Quarantine • Air‑gap • Obfuscate • Compartmentalize • Sanity‑check • Gatekeep • Bootstrap • Derive • Shard • Fortify • Red‑team • Desk‑check
Troubleshooting & Recovery
Device not recognized
Try a different USB port/cable, restart Suite, and ensure no security software blocks USB HID.
Firmware loop
Keep the cable stable, use a direct motherboard port, and allow the device to finish flashing.
PIN forgotten
After several failed attempts the device will wipe. Restore using your recovery seed via Suite.
Address mismatch
Only trust addresses shown on the Trezor screen. If mismatched, cancel and restart Suite.
FAQ
Is this the official Trezor guide?
No. This is a presentation‑style companion. Always prioritize instructions at trezor.io/start.
What’s the safest way to store my recovery seed?
Write on paper or a metal backup. Store in multiple secure, offline locations. Never digitize or upload it.
Should I enable a passphrase?
Yes for stronger security. Memorize it well; losing the passphrase makes the wallet inaccessible even with the seed.
How do I verify downloads?
Check checksums or signatures published by Trezor when available. Download only from the official site.