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

Introduction

What this guide covers

This document walks you through the initial startup process for your Trézor hardware wallet. It focuses on powering the device, creating and securing a recovery seed, verifying device authenticity, and performing your first transaction. Use the headings (H1–H5) to structure slides or handouts in your chosen office application.

Who should use this

New Trézor owners, IT staff deploying devices, and anyone who wants a reliable, printable checklist for first-time setup.

Before you begin (Preparation)

What you need

• Trézor device in original packaging
• USB cable and a trusted computer
• Pen and paper for writing the recovery seed (do NOT store seed digitally)
• Stable internet connection for device firmware checks

Security-first mindset

Perform setup in a private, secure location. Avoid using public Wi‑Fi or shared computers where possible. Never reveal your recovery seed to anyone or enter it into a website or software other than the device’s official interface.

Step-by-step startup

1. Inspect the packaging

Confirm the tamper-evident seal and that accessories match what is expected. If anything looks tampered with, stop and contact Trézor support.

2. Power on the device

1. Connect the Trézor to your computer using the provided USB cable.
2. The device screen will light and show a welcome message with a device model name.
3. Follow on-screen prompts — this confirms a functioning display and buttons.

3. Verify firmware & authenticity

Open the official Trézor web app (Trézor.io/Start) or your local Trezor Suite app. The device will prompt you to confirm a fingerprint or verification code. Always verify the on-device display matches the host application to ensure authenticity.

4. Create a PIN

Choose a strong PIN (minimum 4 digits recommended, 6+ is better). The PIN protects the device from casual physical access.

5. Generate and record the recovery seed

The device will generate a 12, 18, or 24-word recovery seed. Write each word clearly on paper (or the steel backup you bought) and store it in a safe place. This seed is the only way to recover funds if the device is lost or damaged.

Post-setup checks

Confirm addresses

When receiving funds, always verify the receiving address on the device screen — the host computer can be compromised, but the device display shows the real address tied to your keys.

Test with a small amount

Before sending large amounts, send a small test transaction to confirm everything is working and the address is correct.

Common troubleshooting

• Device not powering: Try a different USB cable or port and ensure the cable supports data (not charge-only).
• Firmware mismatch: Reinstall the official Suite or visit Trézor.io/Start for instructions.
• Missing seed: If you did not record the seed, DO NOT use the device for significant funds until you create and safely store a seed.

Best practices & long-term safety

Secure storage of the recovery seed

Store the written seed in a fireproof, waterproof safe. Consider using a metal backup for extra durability. Do not photograph or type the seed.

Software hygiene

Keep your computer and the official Trézor Suite up to date. Only download firmware and apps from the official Trézor domain (Trézor.io and tr����zor.com variations are common misspellings — always double-check). Do not install unknown browser extensions that ask for wallet details.

Sharing and recovery

Never share the seed. If you need a trusted person to help recover funds later, consider creating a multi-signature setup rather than giving out the seed.

Printable checklist (H5 shortcuts)

Quick start checklist

1. Inspect packaging
2. Connect device & power on
3. Verify authenticity via device-host match
4. Create PIN
5. Write down recovery seed (12/18/24 words)
6. Perform a small test transaction
7. Store seed securely