Introduction
Hardware wallets are the safest way to store private keys for cryptocurrencies. This guide walks you through the official setup flow at trezor.io/start, explains key security concepts, and gives practical, action-oriented tips you can follow right away.
Why a hardware wallet?
Hardware wallets hold your private keys offline, reducing risk from malware, phishing, and compromised computers. The Trezor device signs transactions on-device — the private key never leaves the device.
Who is this for?
This is designed for first-time users and for anyone performing a fresh setup or firmware re-check. If you already own a Trezor, use the same steps when you update firmware or create a new wallet.
Step-by-step setup (official flow)
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1. Verify the package and device
Check tamper-evidence seals and packaging. Only use the device if the seals are intact and packaging looks genuine. If anything seems wrong, contact official support before proceeding.
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2. Go to the official start page
Open your browser and navigate to the official URL: trezor.io/start. Confirm the website uses HTTPS and the certificate matches Trezor's domain.
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3. Connect and install Trezor Suite (or use web setup)
Follow browser prompts to install Trezor Suite or use the web-based guided setup. The official page will present clear, stepwise instructions.
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4. Update firmware if prompted
Always update to the latest firmware using the official update flow. Updating ensures you have the latest security patches and improvements.
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5. Create or import a wallet
Choose “Create new wallet” unless you are restoring from an existing recovery seed. If importing, follow the exact restore procedure and double-check the seed length and checksum.
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6. Write down your recovery seed
Write your seed on the physical recovery card provided — do not store it digitally. Store copies in separate secure physical locations (e.g., safe deposit box, home safe).
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7. Confirm the seed and set a PIN
Confirm the seed when the device asks, then set a strong PIN. Use a PIN you can remember but that isn't easily guessable; the device will lock after a few incorrect attempts.
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8. Test with a small transfer
Send a small test amount from another wallet to confirm address generation and transaction signing are working as expected before transferring larger sums.
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9. Backups and redundancy
Consider a multi-location backup strategy. For very large holdings, consider splitting seed with secret-sharing methods (Shamir Backup) if supported by your device model.
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10. Keep software & device secure
Use updated OS and browser, enable two-factor authentication on services, and never enter your seed anywhere online.
Quick security checklist
- Always use trezor.io/start (type it manually or use a bookmark).
- Never share your recovery seed. Trezor staff will never ask for it.
- Verify firmware signatures during updates.
- Keep at least two secure physical backups of the seed.
- Use a PIN and — when supported — passphrase protection for extra security.
Advanced tips & best practices
Use a passphrase (hidden wallet)
A passphrase adds another secret to your seed, creating multiple hidden wallets from one seed. This is powerful but means if you forget the passphrase, access to funds is lost. Treat passphrases like additional private keys — write them down or memorize using a trusted method.
Cold storage and air-gapped setups
For maximum security, use an air-gapped setup where the signing device never touches the internet and transactions are transferred via QR or USB on an intermediary computer.
Recovery planning
Design a recovery plan for heirs or trusted parties. Document where backups are stored and create legal instructions that do not expose the seed itself (e.g., safe combination, executor protocol).
Common mistakes to avoid
- Typing or storing your recovery seed on a phone, cloud, or screenshot.
- Using third-party recovery tools that are unvetted.
- Assuming email or messenger is secure for seed or private key transfer.