Why Use a Hardware Wallet?
Hardware wallets are widely regarded as the most secure way to store cryptocurrencies — because they keep your private keys offline, insulated from malware or phishing risks associated with internet-connected devices.
By using the official setup flow from https://trezor.io/start, you ensure you download legitimate software, install verified firmware, and follow security-minded instructions. This path helps protect your funds from the most common threats in crypto security.
What You Need Before Starting
- •Your hardware wallet device (e.g. Model One or Model T)
- •The USB cable included with the device
- •A computer with a supported browser and a secure environment
- •Pen and the provided recovery-seed card or secure paper
- •A private, distraction-free workspace
- •Time and attention — do not rush setup steps
Important Security Reminder:
Always navigate manually to https://trezor.io/start. Do not rely on search results, ads, or third-party links — these can easily be phishing attempts.
Unboxing & Initial Inspection
When your device arrives, inspect packaging and physical components before powering it on.
- •Ensure the box is sealed and shows no signs of tampering.
- •The device and cable should appear brand new with no scratches, glued seals, or irregularities.
- •The recovery-seed card should be blank — never pre-printed or filled.
If anything seems suspicious — tampered seals, pre-written seed cards, or damage — do not proceed. Contact vendor support or return the device.
Download Official Software
To manage your wallet, send/receive funds, and update firmware, you must install the official wallet software. Download only from the official start page.
Steps
- •Open your web browser and navigate manually to
https://trezor.io/start. - •Select the version appropriate for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, etc.).
- •Download and run the installer, or use the web-based wallet if offered.
- •Launch the application to begin setup.
Avoid downloading software from third-party links, ads, or suspicious pages — these are common sources of malicious wallets and phishing tools.
Connect Your Device & Install Firmware
After installing the wallet software, connect your hardware device using the provided USB cable. The software should detect the wallet and prompt for firmware installation if needed.
Important: Do not unplug the device while firmware is installing. Interrupting this process could brick the wallet.
Generate & Secure Your Recovery Seed
Once firmware is installed, choose to create a new wallet on the device. The wallet will generate a recovery seed (typically 12 or 24 words) — this seed is the only backup to access your funds if the device is lost or damaged.
Backup Instructions
- •Write the seed words by hand on the provided card — do not store them digitally.
- •Double-check spelling and word order carefully.
- •Store the written seed in a secure, offline location — ideally offline, fire-proof, and safe from theft (e.g. a safe, bank deposit box, or metal backup plate).
- •Consider holding multiple backups in separate locations.
Never share your recovery seed.
No legitimate support or official representative will ask you for it. Revealing the seed is equivalent to giving full control of your funds.
Set PIN and (Optional) Passphrase
To protect your device from unauthorized physical access, set a strong PIN when prompted.
For advanced security — or to create a hidden "passphrase-protected" wallet — you may enable a passphrase. This acts like an extra secret on top of your seed and can provide plausible deniability for high-value holdings.
- •Choose a PIN that is not easily guessable (avoid common patterns, birthdays, etc.).
- •If using a passphrase, store it separately from your seed backup. Treat it like a password. Losing it means losing access to that hidden wallet.
First Use — Add Accounts & Transact
After setup, you can add cryptocurrency accounts (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), receive funds, and send transactions via the official wallet software. The hardware device signs transactions — your private keys never leave it.
- •Create or add accounts for supported cryptocurrencies.
- •To receive funds — copy or scan the receive address, but always verify the address on your hardware device before sharing.
- •When sending funds — verify all transaction details (recipient, amount, fees) on the device screen before approving. This protects against address-replacement or clipboard-based malware.
Long-Term Security Best Practices
- •Only use official software and firmware from the official domain.
- •Keep your recovery seed offline — never store it digitally (no photos, screenshots, cloud storage, or text files).
- •Store backup copies in separate, secure physical locations (safe, locked box, bank deposit, etc.).
- •Use a strong, non-obvious PIN; if using passphrase protection — treat the passphrase like a secret password stored separately.
- •Always verify transaction data (addresses, amounts, fees) on the hardware device screen — trust the device, not just your computer's display.
- •Apply firmware and software updates when prompted — updates often include important security fixes.
FAQ & Troubleshooting
My device is not detected — what should I do?
Try a different USB port or cable. Verify that the wallet software (or bridge) is installed correctly. If problems persist, consult official support documentation from the start page.
What if firmware update fails?
Do not unplug the device during update. After a failed attempt, restart the software and try again. If the issue continues — contact official support.
I lost my device — can I recover my wallet?
Yes — as long as you have your recovery seed (and passphrase, if used). On a new device, choose "Recover Wallet" and carefully enter your seed (on-device), then set a new PIN.
I lost my seed — can I recover anything?
No. If you lose the seed (and passphrase, if any), your funds are lost. The seed is the only backup.
Can I store multiple cryptocurrencies?
Yes. The wallet supports multiple coins/tokens. You can create separate accounts for different cryptocurrencies within the same device.
Final Thoughts
A hardware wallet gives you powerful security — but only if you follow safe practices. By using the official setup flow, creating and safeguarding your recovery seed properly, verifying firmware, and adopting vigilant habits, you can significantly reduce risk and keep your crypto secure.
Remember: Your device and seed are only as secure as your habits. Always stay alert to phishing attempts, suspicious links, and social-engineering attacks. Treat your recovery seed like cash — offline and protected.
Welcome to self-custody. With this page and careful habits, you're now ready to securely manage your crypto.