Before you begin — a short checklist
Quick step-by-step setup
On your computer, open trezor.io/start. That page provides the correct downloads and the official flow for your model. Never follow setup prompts from unknown links or from messages you didn’t request.
Plug the Trezor into your computer with a data-capable cable. The device shows a greeting and several messages that you must confirm on the device itself. Only act on prompts that appear on the device screen — this is a core security check.
Use the official page to download Trezor Suite or use the recommended web interface. Update the firmware when prompted — official firmware updates patch security and improve features. Always confirm firmware actions on the device screen.
Create a new wallet and choose a PIN. Pick something memorable but not obvious. The PIN prevents easy access if the device is stolen. Enter it directly on the device when prompted.
The device reveals the recovery phrase (usually 12 or 24 words). Write the words in order on the supplied recovery card or on quality paper. Store the written seed offline in a secure location — never photograph it or save it electronically.
The device will ask you to confirm random words. This verifies you copied the seed correctly. Double-check spelling and order — mistakes make restoration impossible.
A passphrase is an advanced feature that creates a hidden wallet on top of your seed. It gives extra security but also adds risk: if you forget the passphrase, the assets are effectively lost. Use this only if you understand the trade-offs and can keep the passphrase securely stored.
Security fundamentals
Treat your recovery seed like the master key. If anyone learns it, they control your crypto. A few short, essential rules:
- Never share the seed. No legitimate support will ask for it.
- Never enter the seed on a computer or phone. Typing exposes it to malware and screenshots.
- Prefer multiple physical backups. Consider two copies stored in different secure places (safe deposit box, home safe).
- Use the device screen to verify addresses and amounts. Always confirm transaction details on the Trezor display before approving.
- Keep firmware and apps updated. Small updates often close vulnerabilities.
Day-to-day usage pattern
Most users follow a durable pattern: keep the bulk of funds offline on the Trezor and move a small spending balance to a hot wallet for day-to-day transactions. When sending from Trezor, preview the recipient address on the device screen and send a test amount the first time you interact with a new destination.
Troubleshooting & common issues
- Device not recognized: swap USB ports or cable; ensure the cable supports data (not charge-only).
- Firmware update fails: retry via the official start page. If the device enters an unexpected state, follow official recovery instructions from trezor.io.
- Forgot PIN: you can reset the device and restore from seed; losing both the PIN and seed means irreversible loss.
- Seed lost/damaged: if you lose the seed and still have the device, create a new seed immediately and transfer funds to the new wallet.
Advanced tips (recommended for long-term security)
- Consider a metal backup: steel plates resist fire, water, and decay that paper cannot withstand.
- Use multi-location backups: don’t keep every copy in the same place where a single disaster or theft could remove them all.
- Split seed (with care): advanced users sometimes split the seed into shares using cryptographic schemes (Shamir’s Secret Sharing). That introduces complexity and must be implemented carefully.
- Test restoration: periodically (and safely) test restoring on a spare device to ensure backups are usable — but only with small test funds or practice seeds, not with large balances.
Phishing and social engineering
Phishing is common. Always type trezor.io directly or use an official bookmark. Beware of unsolicited messages claiming urgency or offering tech support. If someone pressures you for your seed, stop — it’s an attack. Official support will never ask for your recovery phrase.
If something goes wrong
If you suspect compromise, move funds to a new wallet whose seed you control (you can create it on a different, secure device). Contact official support via the site linked above for guidance — but never provide your seed to anyone.