Get Started with Trezor | Trezor.io/start — Quick Setup & Safety Guide
Get started with Trezor
This guide walks you through unboxing, installing Trezor Suite (desktop or web), initializing your Trezor hardware wallet, and the critical safety steps to protect your crypto. Follow these steps — setup typically takes about 15 minutes.
Source reference: official Trezor start flow and device guides.
Quick setup — step by step
Download Trezor Suite. For the smoothest experience, download the Trezor Suite desktop app or choose the web app by clicking “Continue in browser.” Trezor Suite is the official app used to install firmware, create wallets, and manage your assets. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Unbox and inspect your device. Confirm the package seal and accessories are intact. If anything looks tampered with, stop and contact support before proceeding. (Trezor devices ship without firmware preinstalled.) :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Install the app (desktop) or open the web app. If you downloaded the desktop app, run the installer and launch Trezor Suite. Web users can continue in a supported browser. Desktop gives fuller offline convenience; the web flow is fast and works well too. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Connect your Trezor and install firmware. Plug the device into your computer or pair with supported mobile/desktop methods. The Suite will prompt to install the latest firmware — allow this step (the device is shipped without firmware). :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Create a new wallet or recover an existing one. Choose “Create new wallet” if you’re new, or “Recover wallet” and input your recovery phrase if you already have one. During creation you’ll receive a recovery seed (the recommended default length for many Trezor models is 24 words). Keep this phrase offline and secure. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Set a PIN and optional passphrase. Choose a PIN to protect physical access to the device. Advanced users can enable a passphrase (a powerful extra layer — treat it like a separate secret). If you forget your PIN, the device must be wiped and restored from your recovery seed. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Move coins to your Trezor. Once setup is complete you can transfer funds from exchanges or hot wallets into addresses generated by your Trezor via Trezor Suite. Test with a small amount first. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Essential safety tips (do these now)
Record your recovery seed offline. Write the seed on paper (or a metal backup) and store it in a secure location. Never photograph the seed or store it in cloud services or email.
Keep firmware updated. Firmware updates patch security and add features — install official updates from Trezor Suite only. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Never share your recovery seed or PIN with anyone — Trezor support will never ask for that information.
Prefer buying Trezor devices only from the official store or authorized resellers to avoid tampered devices. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Consider splitting backups (geographically) and using metal backup plates for long-term durability.
When testing sends, always send a small test amount first to confirm everything works as expected.
Which Trezor should I set up?
Trezor offers multiple models (Model One, Model T, and newer Safe series like Safe 5/7). The Suite and start flow cover all models: follow the device-specific “Get started” guide in Suite or on the Trezor Learn pages for model-specific steps and images. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Common troubleshooting
No device detected: Try a different USB cable/port and ensure the device is not in a power-only cable (use data-capable cable). Reboot Suite and reconnect.
Firmware install fails: Use the desktop Suite if web install doesn't work; ensure internet access and do not disconnect during the firmware flash.
Forgot PIN: If you forget your PIN you must wipe the device and restore from your recovery seed — which is why a secure backup is critical. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Top 5 FAQs
1. How long does setup take?
Typical full setup (download Suite, install firmware, create wallet, write seed, set PIN) takes about 15 minutes for most users. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
2. Do I need the desktop app or is the web app okay?
Both work. Desktop offers an installable client that can be handy offline; the web app (“Continue in browser”) is fully supported and often faster for first-time users. Choose whichever you prefer. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
3. What length is the recovery seed?
Many Trezor devices default to a 24-word recovery seed during wallet creation (Trezor supports recovery phrases of different lengths depending on model and options). Always record the full seed exactly as shown. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
4. Can I recover my wallet if my Trezor is lost or damaged?
Yes — use your recovery seed phrase on a new Trezor or any compatible wallet that supports the same recovery standard. Protect that seed like the key to your funds. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
5. Is Trezor safe for storing large amounts of crypto?
Hardware wallets like Trezor provide a high level of protection against online attacks by keeping private keys offline. For holding large sums, combine best practices: secure seed backups (preferably offline/metal), firmware updates, and avoiding phishing sites. Consider splitting large holdings and using multi-sig for extra safety. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}