Trezor Hardware Wallet Setup Session

Expert guidance for securely setting up your Trezor Model T or Trezor One. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your cryptocurrency assets remain protected.

1

Unboxing & Verification

Before you begin, carefully unbox your Trezor device and verify its authenticity.

  • Check for tamper-evident seals on the packaging
  • Verify the holographic security seal is intact
  • Ensure all components are present: device, USB cable, recovery seed cards
  • Compare your device with official images on trezor.io
    • Security Alert: Never purchase a used Trezor device. Only buy from official sources to avoid tampered devices.
    Expert Tip: Take photos of your device and packaging for reference. This can be helpful if you need to contact support later.
    2

    Connect to Trezor Suite

    Download and install the official Trezor Suite application to manage your device.

  • Visit suite.trezor.io to download Trezor Suite
  • Install the application on your computer
  • Connect your Trezor device using the provided USB cable
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to install firmware
    • Tip: Use the desktop application for enhanced security rather than the web version for initial setup.
    Download Trezor Suite
    3

    Create Your PIN

    Set up a secure PIN to protect your device from unauthorized access.

  • Choose a PIN with at least 4 digits (longer is more secure)
  • Don't use easily guessable sequences (1234, 0000, etc.)
  • Remember that the PIN entry is randomized on the device screen for security
  • Write down your PIN in a secure location (separate from your recovery seed)
    • Important: Your PIN protects your device if it's physically stolen. After several incorrect attempts, the device will wipe itself.
    4

    Backup Your Recovery Seed

    This is the most critical step. Your recovery seed is the master key to your cryptocurrency.

  • Write down all 12 or 24 words in the exact order shown on your Trezor device
  • Use the provided recovery seed cards or a dedicated metal backup solution
  • Double-check each word for accuracy
  • Never store your seed digitally (no photos, cloud storage, or text files)
    • Critical Security Practice: Anyone with access to your recovery seed can access your funds. Store it securely offline and never share it with anyone.
    Expert Recommendation: Consider using a Cryptosteel or other metal backup solution for fire and water protection of your recovery seed.
    5

    Verify Your Backup

    Confirm that you've correctly recorded your recovery seed by performing a verification check.

  • Follow the prompts in Trezor Suite to verify your backup
  • Select the words in the correct order when prompted
  • If verification fails, start the backup process again with a new seed
    • Tip: This verification ensures you can recover your funds if your device is lost, damaged, or stolen.
    6

    Label Your Device & Accounts

    Organize your setup by giving your device and accounts descriptive names.

  • Give your Trezor device a unique name in Trezor Suite
  • Create descriptive labels for different cryptocurrency accounts
  • Consider creating separate accounts for different purposes (savings, trading, etc.)
    • Organization Tip: Clear labeling helps you manage multiple accounts and devices more efficiently.
    7

    Enable Additional Security Features

    Strengthen your security setup with advanced features.

  • Consider enabling passphrase encryption for hidden wallets (advanced users)
  • Set up Shamir Backup if using Trezor Model T (distributes recovery across multiple shares)
  • Enable FIDO2 authentication for web services
  • Familiarize yourself with the device wipe feature for emergencies
    • Expert Advice: Passphrases create hidden wallets that are inaccessible with just the recovery seed. This adds an extra layer of security but requires careful management.
    8

    Test Your Setup

    Perform a small transaction to ensure everything is working correctly.

  • Send a small amount of cryptocurrency to your Trezor
  • Verify the transaction appears in your account
  • Practice sending a small amount from your Trezor to another wallet
  • Disconnect and reconnect your device to ensure it works properly
    • Testing Tip: Always test with a small amount first before transferring significant funds.

    Official Resources

    Access Trezor's official documentation and support channels.

    Trezor Start Guide Trezor Support

    Security Best Practices

    Learn how to keep your cryptocurrency secure long-term.

    Security Guide

    Advanced Features

    Explore advanced capabilities of your Trezor device.

    Passphrase Guide Shamir Backup