What is Trezor.io/Start?
Trezor.io/Start is the official onboarding hub for setting up your Trezor hardware wallet safely and securely. This page guides you step‑by‑step: from unboxing your device to sending your first crypto. It ensures you always use official software, follow security best practices, and avoid phishing risks.
Whether you're a first-time crypto user or an experienced investor, this guide walks you through the essentials: firmware installation, recovery seed backup, PIN setup, passphrase protection, and more.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
- Unbox your Trezor device. Ensure the packaging is sealed and untampered. You should find: the Trezor unit, a USB cable, a recovery seed card, and documentation.
- Visit Trezor.io/Start. In your browser, navigate to the official link. Never use links from emails or social media — always type the URL yourself or use a trusted bookmark.
- Download and install Trezor Suite. Select the correct version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux). Follow installation instructions.
- Connect your Trezor. Use the USB cable to connect it to your computer. The software should detect your device and prompt you.
- Install firmware (if required). If your device arrives without firmware, you'll be prompted to install the official firmware. Confirm the fingerprint on the device before approving.
- Create a new wallet or recover an existing one. If it’s your first time, select “Create New Wallet.” If you already have a seed, select “Recover Wallet” and input your 12‑ or 24‑word seed in the correct order.
- Backup your recovery seed. You will be shown a series of words (12 or 24). Write them down carefully on the seed card. Do **not** copy to a digital file, screenshot, or cloud storage. Confirm the words as prompted.
- Set up your PIN. Use the scrambled layout in the interface. A strong 4–6 digit PIN helps protect access if your device is lost or stolen.
- Optional: set a passphrase. This adds another word on top of your seed phrase and enables a “hidden wallet.” Use this only if you understand the implications — you cannot recover a lost passphrase if forgotten.
- Start using your wallet. In Trezor Suite, you can add accounts, receive funds, send transactions, view balances, export history, and manage multiple coins—all while confirming critical actions on the device itself.
Security & Best Practices
Your hardware wallet is only as secure as the steps you take. Here are best practices to keep your crypto safe:
- Bookmark Trezor.io/Start and always access setup from that domain.
- Never share your recovery seed with anyone or store it digitally.
- Confirm every transaction on the device screen — do not trust the computer display alone.
- Regularly update firmware using official releases through Trezor Suite.
- Enable a passphrase for advanced security, but memorize it or store it securely offline.
- Avoid using public or untrusted computers during setup or use.
“Your recovery seed is your lifeline. If you lose both device and seed, you lose access to your funds forever.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if Trezor.io/Start doesn’t load?
Try clearing your browser cache, switching browsers (Chrome, Firefox), or disabling ad blockers/extension interference. Ensure you're using a secure internet connection. If issues persist, download Trezor Suite directly from the official site.
Can I use mobile to set up?
The full setup process is designed for desktop environments. Mobile support is limited and not recommended for the initial setup. Use a trusted computer for best security.
What if I lose my Trezor but have my seed?
Buy a new Trezor device, go through recovery mode, and enter your seed phrase. Your wallet and funds will be restored. This is why securely backing up the seed is so crucial.
Is Trezor better than a software wallet?
Yes, in many security aspects. A hardware wallet keeps your private keys offline, protecting them from malware and remote attacks. Software wallets are more flexible, but inherently more vulnerable.
How often should I update firmware?
Update when prompted via Trezor Suite. Firmware updates include security patches, support for new coins, and feature improvements. Always ensure you have your seed backed up before updating.