Quick Start — 6 steps to a secure device
This page guides you through powering on, initializing, and protecting your device. Each step includes practical tips and security best practices.
Unbox and inspect your device
Check packaging for tamper-evidence. Only use the device if seals and packaging look intact. Genuine devices come sealed; suspicious packaging is a red flag.
Power on and update firmware
Connect to your computer using the included cable, go to trezor.io/start in a secure browser, and follow on-screen prompts. Update firmware immediately if prompted — firmware updates often include critical security patches.
Create a new wallet & set a PIN
Generate a new wallet on the device (never on a computer). Choose a PIN you can remember but isn’t easily guessable. Trezor devices lock after repeated incorrect attempts, protecting your funds.
Write down your recovery seed
Your device will display a recovery seed (a sequence of words). Write these words down on paper and store them in a safe place. Do not store the seed digitally or photograph it. Anyone with the seed can access your funds.
Confirm and test
Confirm the seed and PIN on the device as instructed. Send a small test transaction to and from the device to validate everything works before transferring large sums.
Daily-use best practices
Use the device for signing on trusted machines, enable passphrase/PIN protection when appropriate, and keep firmware up to date. Consider a metal seed backup for enhanced disaster resistance.
Why the recovery seed matters
The recovery seed is the single most important asset: it’s a human-readable backup of your private keys. Treat it like a physical bank vault key. If lost or exposed, you risk permanent loss of funds. Consider splitting the seed (shamir backup) or using geographically separated secure storage if you hold significant assets.
Security tips at a glance
- Never share your recovery seed or PIN with anyone.
- Only download software from official sources and verify signatures.
- Beware of phishing sites and double-check URLs (look for HTTPS and correct domain).
- Prefer open-source wallets and verify firmware checksums if you’re advanced.
No support person will ever ask for your seed or PIN. If someone requests this information, treat it as a scam and disconnect your device.
FAQ
What if my device is lost or stolen?
If your device is lost or stolen but your recovery seed is safe, you can recover your funds on a new device using the recovery seed. If the seed is exposed, move funds to a new wallet immediately.
Can I store the seed on my phone?
No. Storing the seed digitally (on phones, cloud, or photos) increases the risk of theft. Paper or metal backups kept offline are recommended.
How often should I update firmware?
Install firmware updates when prompted — usually whenever a critical fix or improvement is released. Frequent updates ensure you have the latest protections.