Official Trézor® Startup Guide

1. Why Begin Here?

Using an official onboarding flow (for example via trezor.io/start or the verified Trézor site) ensures that you always download authentic software, avoid phishing clones, and follow verified instructions. The process below matches the guidance from Trézor’s official documentation. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

2. Prerequisites & Safety Checklist

Before you begin, prepare the following:

• Your new Trézor® hardware device (Model T, Model One, or newer model).
• The original USB cable (avoid untrusted adapters or hubs).
• A computer (macOS, Windows, or Linux) with updated OS and browser.
• A quiet, private workspace without cameras or distractions.
• Pen and recovery seed sheet (or a metal backup plate, if you have one).

Never photograph or digitally store your recovery seed. Always treat it as the most sensitive secret.
Always confirm you are on the correct domain (check the URL and SSL padlock) before downloading software or entering setup flows. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

3. Inspect Packaging & Device

Carefully examine the box and tamper seal:

• Ensure holographic or security seals are intact.
• Look for any signs of tampering, scratch marks, or prewritten content.
• If anything seems off, stop and contact official support immediately before proceeding further.

4. Connect Device & Launch Setup

Use the included USB cable to connect the Trézor to your computer. In your browser, navigate manually (not via search result) to trezor.io/start. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

The onboarding page will direct you to download the official Trézor Suite application (desktop version preferred). :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

5. Install / Update Firmware

Once Trézor Suite detects your device, it will check whether firmware is installed or up to date:

• If firmware is missing or outdated, follow the prompts to install the official firmware. All updates are cryptographically signed. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Confirm on the physical device that the firmware hash or fingerprint matches what the software claims.

6. Create New Wallet or Restore Existing

You will be given two choices:

• Create a new wallet — for brand new usage.
• Recover (restore) wallet — if you have an existing recovery seed. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

If creating new, the device will generate a recovery seed (12, 18, or 24 words depending on model). Words are displayed one by one on the hardware screen. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

7. Back Up Your Recovery Seed

This is the **only backup** of your funds. If you lose both your device and seed, funds cannot be recovered.

1. Write each word clearly on the provided recovery sheet, in the exact order shown.
2. Double-check by using the on‑device verification prompts (if offered) to confirm correctness.
3. Consider creating two separate physical backups and storing them in distinct, secure locations (e.g. safe deposit box, home safe).

Never type your seed into any computer, smartphone, or website — ever. The seed should never be digital. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

8. Set Your PIN

After the backup, you’ll be prompted to configure a numeric PIN. This PIN unlocks your device locally:

• Pick something memorable to you but not easily guessed.
• The PIN entry interface often randomizes digit positions to prevent “shoulder‑surfing.”
• Do not share the PIN with anyone.

From this point on, whenever you connect the device, you must enter the PIN before any operations. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

9. Optional: Enable Passphrase (Advanced)

For extra security, you may enable a **passphrase** (sometimes called a 25th word). This creates a hidden wallet accessible only when you supply the passphrase.

• If you lose the passphrase, funds in that hidden wallet are irrecoverable.
• Devices will, by default, show the standard wallet if passphrase is disabled — enabling it triggers the prompt. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

A note: passphrase is for advanced users. If unsure, you may skip it initially and enable later inside Trézor Suite settings.

10. Confirm & Explore in Trézor Suite

After setup, your device is ready to use via the Trézor Suite app:

• Manage your accounts (BTC, ETH, altcoins, tokens) securely.
• Send and receive funds. Every transaction must be verified on the physical device screen. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Check balance, portfolio, labels, and device settings.
• Install or enable apps or coin plugins, if supported by your Trézor model.

11. Test With a Small Transaction

Before moving large amounts, test by sending and receiving a small amount of crypto. Confirm that funds appear and that you can send back. This helps you verify correctness without risking major sums.

12. Maintenance & Security Best Practices

To keep your wallet and funds safe:

• Regularly check for firmware and app updates via Trézor Suite and apply them. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Never share your seed, PIN, or passphrase with anyone — official support will never ask them. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Always verify addresses and transaction details on the physical device display before approving. Do not rely solely on what the software shows. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Beware of phishing — only use verified domain links, official apps, and secure channels.
• Consider splitting high-value holdings across multiple seeds or using multisig setups for maximum security.

13. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some frequent problems and how to address them:

Device not recognized

Try a different USB port or cable. Restart the computer. Update or reinstall Trézor Suite or Bridge (if required). :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Firmware update failure

Ensure your connection is stable, retry, and do not interrupt power. If problems persist, refer to Trézor official support. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Forgot PIN

After too many failed attempts, the device may wipe itself as a security measure. Use your recovery seed to restore. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Lost device

You can recover your wallet (and thus funds) using your recovery seed on a new compatible device. Ensure you keep your seed safe. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

Address mismatch warnings

Never approve if the address on device and software differ. Cancel, update software, and verify again. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

14. Final Checklist Before Handling Larger Funds

• Recovery seed is written clearly, stored in multiple secure offline places.
• PIN set and tested successfully.
• Firmware and Suite verified as current and authentic.
• Confirmed a small transaction successfully.
• Address always matches on device before approving transactions.
• You understand passphrase usage (if enabled) and store it securely.