Trezor.io/start — Get Started with Your Trezor Device

Step-by-step 2500-word style guide to unbox, set up, update, and secure your Trezor hardware wallet — desktop & web flows.

Introduction

Trezor hardware wallets provide an air-gapped secure element to hold private keys. Trezor.io/start is the recommended flow to get started — it walks you through downloading Trezor Suite (desktop/web), installing Trezor Bridge (if using the web), initializing your device, and applying security best practices.

Unboxing & initial checks

Inspect packaging for tamper evidence. You should receive the device, cable, recovery card, and quick-start materials. If anything looks tampered, contact the vendor before using the device.

Install Trezor Suite

Desktop

  1. Go to trezor.io/start and choose your OS.
  2. Download and run the Suite installer; on macOS allow the app in Security & Privacy if prompted.
  3. Open Suite and follow the on-screen wizard.

Web + Bridge

If you prefer the web Suite, the site will prompt to install a small local helper (Trezor Bridge). Bridge enables browser-to-device USB communication securely.

Initial device setup

Create a new wallet

  1. Connect the device and choose "Create new device" in Suite.
  2. Set a PIN and write down the recovery seed shown on-device on the supplied card.
  3. Confirm seed words when prompted and finish Suite onboarding.

Restore an existing wallet

  1. Choose "Restore" and input your recovery phrase as instructed on the device.
  2. Set a PIN and finish the setup in Suite.

Security principles

  • Never share your recovery seed — support will never ask for it.
  • Write the seed physically; avoid digital copies or photos.
  • Confirm all actions on the Trezor device screen — it is the final source of truth.
  • Buy devices only from the official site or authorized resellers.

Using Trezor Suite — accounts & transactions

Add accounts for supported coins, check balances, and use the Send/Receive flows. Always verify addresses shown on-device before sending or sharing them.

Firmware updates & device maintenance

Update firmware only through Suite prompts. Do not unplug the device during an update. If an update fails, follow Suite's recovery instructions or contact official support.

Advanced features — passphrases & hidden wallets

Trezor supports optional passphrases which create hidden wallets. This offers extra privacy but is advanced — loss of the passphrase means permanent loss of funds in that hidden wallet.

Troubleshooting

Device not detected

  • Try a different USB cable/port.
  • Ensure Bridge is installed and running if using web Suite.
  • Unlock the device and ensure the correct app is open.

Permission errors on macOS/Linux

Check Security & Privacy for blocked components (macOS) or ensure udev rules and group membership on Linux so your user can access the device.

Backup & recovery

If device is lost or broken, recover on a new device using your recovery phrase. Consider a metal backup for long-term durability against fire or water damage.

Developer integrations & third-party tools

Trezor provides developer tools and APIs. When using third-party tools, ensure they support hardware wallet flows and always confirm operations on-device.

Checklist — quick startup

  1. Verify packaging and accessories.
  2. Install Suite or use web + Bridge from trezor.io/start.
  3. Create or restore wallet on-device; store seed offline.
  4. Install coin apps if required and add accounts.
  5. Verify addresses and transactions on-device.

Conclusion

Trezor.io/start guides you to a safe, minimal-risk setup for your hardware wallet. Follow on-device confirmations, keep recovery seeds offline, and update only through official channels for the best protection of your crypto assets.