Why begin at Trezor.io/Start?
Your hardware wallet is strongest when it’s initialized correctly. The official onboarding flow verifies your device, ensures you install authentic firmware, and walks you through creating a PIN, an optional passphrase, and a human-readable recovery seed. This presentation distills that flow into clean steps, while still urging you to complete each milestone at Trezor.io/Start so you benefit from the most current checks and downloads.
Preparation Checklist
What you need on your desk
- Your Trezor device and original USB cable.
- A computer with a modern browser (and administrative rights).
- Two blank, permanent paper cards for your recovery seed (no photos, no cloud).
- A quiet, private space—no cameras, no screens behind you.
Tip
If you’re new to hardware wallets, skim the official quick-start at Trezor.io/Start before plugging anything in. It sets expectations for the flow and reduces mistakes.
Step 1 — Connect and Verify
Plug in your device using the supplied cable. Your browser will prompt you to enable the Trezor companion (Trezor Suite or the browser bridge). Follow the on-screen instructions; do not install drivers from unknown sites. Genuine devices display a verification prompt during first contact. If anything looks off—misspellings, unusual pop-ups, or requests to “import” a seed you didn’t create—disconnect immediately and re-enter via Trezor.io/Start.
Security posture for first power-on
- Confirm tamper-evident seals and that packaging looks unmodified.
- Use a trusted computer profile; avoid public Wi-Fi and shared machines.
- Close screen-recording and meeting apps.
Reminder
Never type a recovery seed into your computer. Seeds belong only on the device screen and your paper cards.
Step 2 — Update Firmware
The device may request a firmware update before initialization. Allow it. Firmware updates include security patches and device features. Keep the cable steady; do not unplug mid-update. Once complete, you’ll be returned to the guided setup. If you’re unsure whether the version is current, you can reconfirm by reopening Trezor.io/Start and letting the Suite recheck the device.
Step 3 — Create a New Wallet
Choose Create new wallet. The device will display a recovery seed (12/20/24 words depending on model). Write each word clearly, in order, on both paper cards. Do not capture screenshots. The device will ask you to verify words or positions to ensure you transcribed correctly. Store the two copies in separate, secure locations to reduce single-point risk. If you need a refresher during this step, keep Trezor.io/Start open in a nearby tab.
PIN & Optional Passphrase
Set a PIN that you can memorize but others cannot guess. A passphrase (an extra secret you enter each time) adds plausible deniability by creating a separate, hidden wallet. Use a sentence that’s unique and not stored digitally. Practice entering it to avoid typos.
Step 4 — Verify Receive Address
To test your setup, generate a receive address and confirm the full address on the device screen—not just in the app. Send a small test transaction first. This habit prevents clipboard malware from rerouting funds. Only trust addresses that match on both the computer and the device.
Backup Hygiene & Recovery Drills
Backup dos and don’ts
- Store seeds offline; never in photos apps, cloud notes, or email.
- Consider a fire/water-resistant medium; avoid laminating if it can trap moisture.
- Tell a trusted future executor how to find—but not read—your backup.
Practice a dry-run recovery
Periodically simulate a recovery on a spare device or in a safe window using a throwaway wallet to build muscle memory. Revisit the official instructions at Trezor.io/Start so you’re fluent under pressure.
Troubleshooting & Authenticity Checks
If the Suite can’t see your device, try a different USB port/cable, update your browser, and disable conflicting extensions. For authenticity, compare behavior against screenshots and steps at Trezor.io/Start. When in doubt, stop and verify rather than guessing through security prompts.
Next Steps
With a clean initialization, current firmware, and strong backups, you’re ready to manage assets confidently. Keep your device physically secure, review permissions before every send, and revisit the setup guide after major updates. The safest route always begins at the official portal: Trezor.io/Start.