Starting Up Your Trezor Device
Welcome to the world of secure self-custody. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to initialize your new Trezor Model T or Trezor One device using the official **Trezor Suite** software. It is critical that you follow these instructions precisely to ensure the maximum level of security for your digital assets.
1. Unboxing and Authenticity Verification
Step 1.1: Package Inspection (Trezor One)
The Trezor One package uses tamper-evident holographic seals over the box opening.
- Check that the seals are intact, undamaged, and show no signs of tampering.
- The serial number on the device itself should match the one on the box (if present).
Step 1.2: Screen Inspection (Trezor Model T)
The Trezor Model T uses a different security measure: a tamper-evident holographic sticker that covers the USB-C port.
- Verify that the holographic sticker is perfectly placed and undamaged.
- If the sticker is missing, peeled, or damaged, **DO NOT USE THE DEVICE.** Contact Trezor support immediately.
**CRITICAL WARNING:** Any sign of pre-tampering (open packaging, damaged seals, scratches) means the device may be compromised. **Stop the setup** and contact official Trezor support.
2. Connection and Installing Trezor Suite
Step 2.1: Download Trezor Suite
The recommended method for managing your Trezor is the desktop application, Trezor Suite.
- Navigate directly to
suite.trezor.io
(or search 'Trezor Suite' on the official Trezor website). - Download the correct installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
- Install the application and launch it.
Step 2.2: Connect Your Trezor
Use the USB cable provided in the box to connect your Trezor device to your computer.
- The Trezor screen (or display area) should light up and display a welcome message like **`Go to trezor.io/start`** or **`suite.trezor.io`**.
- Trezor Suite should automatically detect the connected device.
3. Firmware Installation & Wallet Setup
Step 3.1: Install/Update Firmware
Your device will likely require a firmware installation or update.
- Trezor Suite will prompt you to install the latest official firmware.
- Confirm the firmware installation details on your computer screen.
- **Crucially:** Verify the authenticity fingerprint displayed on your computer matches the fingerprint shown on your Trezor device screen.
- Confirm the installation directly on the Trezor device.
- The device will reboot.
Step 4.1: Generating Your Recovery Seed
The Recovery Seed (or Seed Phrase) is the master backup of your entire wallet. **WRITE IT DOWN CAREFULLY.**
- Select **"Create a new wallet"** in Trezor Suite.
- Choose the standard 12 or 24-word setup (24 words is recommended for Trezor Model T).
- The words will be displayed **ONLY** on your Trezor device's screen.
- Use the provided Recovery Seed card(s) and a non-erasable pen to write down each word clearly and in the correct order.
- **Do NOT** take a picture of it, type it on a computer, or store it digitally.
- Once finished, confirm the words on the device.
Step 5.1: Set Your Device PIN
The PIN protects your Trezor from unauthorized physical access.
- Trezor Suite will show a randomized keypad layout.
- The actual number positions are displayed on the Trezor device screen.
- Click the positions on your **computer screen** that correspond to the numbers displayed on your **Trezor screen**.
- Choose a PIN of 4 to 9 digits (longer is better).
- Confirm the PIN by entering it a second time.
4. Advanced Security & First Use
Passphrase (Optional, Recommended for Advanced Users)
A Passphrase adds an extra layer of security on top of your Recovery Seed, creating a "hidden wallet."
- It is a complex word or phrase that you type into the computer *after* entering your PIN.
- It is **not** stored on the device or protected by the Recovery Seed.
- **If you forget your Passphrase, your funds are permanently lost, even if you have the Recovery Seed.**
- Only enable this feature once you fully understand its implications and have a reliable system for backing up the passphrase itself.
Receiving Your First Transaction
Once setup is complete, you can safely receive cryptocurrency.
- In Trezor Suite, navigate to the desired cryptocurrency (e.g., Bitcoin).
- Click the **"Receive"** tab. A new address will be generated.
- **CRITICAL:** Click **"Show Full Address on Device"**.
- Verify that the address shown on your computer screen **exactly matches** the address displayed on your Trezor device screen.
- Once confirmed, you can safely copy and share this address to receive funds.
5. Troubleshooting & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
My computer says the Trezor is unauthorized.
Ensure you are running the latest version of Trezor Suite. Also, check your USB cable connection and try a different USB port. On some operating systems, driver installation may be required (Trezor Suite handles this automatically, but check your security settings).
What if I lose my Recovery Seed card?
This is a critical security breach. If you have access to your device, **immediately** move all funds to a new wallet (which you will set up with a new, safely backed-up Recovery Seed). Your funds are only secure until someone finds the lost card.
Can I use a third-party wallet?
Yes, Trezor is compatible with many third-party wallet interfaces (like Exodus, Electrum, etc.). However, **Trezor Suite is the official and most secure interface**, highly recommended for beginners and for managing the widest range of coins and features.
Start Your Secure Journey Now.
Click the button below to be redirected to the official download page for Trezor Suite.
Download Trezor Suite App