🔒 Trezor.io/start — Begin Your Crypto Journey

Want to hold your crypto yourself, securely and simply? This guide walks you through practical steps to start with a Trezor hardware wallet — from unboxing to your first secure backup. 🚀

By Trezor Guide • Approx. reading: 6–8 min • Updated:

Why choose a hardware wallet? 🧭

When you own cryptocurrency, private keys are the golden keys to access your funds. Keeping them on an internet-connected computer or phone exposes them to hacks and phishing. A hardware wallet like a Trezor stores keys offline — physically isolated — so transactions can be signed securely without revealing your keys to the internet.

Tip: Think of a hardware wallet as a vault — you interact with it, but the vault never exposes the vault code. 🏦

First steps: Unbox, verify, connect 🔍

  1. Buy from the official source — always get your device directly from Trezor (trezor.io/start) or an authorized reseller to avoid tampered hardware.
  2. Inspect the packaging — seals should be intact; check for tamper signs. If anything looks off, contact the vendor before proceeding.
  3. Go to trezor.io/start — follow the official setup guide and firmware instructions.
  4. Verify firmware and device identity — the Trezor setup will guide you to confirm the device fingerprint and install official firmware.

Set up securely: PIN, seed, and backups 🛡️

During setup you'll create a PIN and generate a recovery seed (usually 12, 18 or 24 words). These are the critical pieces:

  • PIN — used to unlock the device. Choose something memorable but not trivial.
  • Recovery seed — write it down on paper (or steel plate for extra protection). This restores your wallet if the device is lost or broken.
  • Never share the seed — anyone with the seed can access your funds. Trezor staff or support will never ask for your seed.

Consider using a passphrase (optional) to add an extra layer — like a second password that modifies the seed. But remember: losing the passphrase means losing access.

Make your first transaction ✅

Once set up, try a small test transaction. Send a tiny amount of crypto from an exchange or another wallet to your Trezor-managed address. Verify the receive address on the device screen — hardware wallets show addresses so you can confirm they match the app.

  • Use a small amount first to confirm everything is correct.
  • Check fees and network confirmations.
  • When comfortable, transfer larger amounts and move funds in stages if you prefer.

Everyday safety: habits that protect you 🔐

Good security is more than hardware — it’s habits. A few simple rules keep your crypto safer:

  • Never enter your recovery seed on a website or share it with anyone.
  • Beware phishing links — always type trezor.io/start yourself or use a saved bookmark.
  • Keep firmware up to date — firmware updates improve security and add features.
  • Keep an offline, physical copy of your seed in a secure place (or split it between trusted locations).

Next steps: learn more & explore 🌱

As you grow more comfortable, explore additional features: multiple accounts, coin support, third-party integrations (like UTXO tools or multisig setups), and using Trezor with popular wallets such as Electrum, or browser wallets that support hardware signing. Always verify integrations via official documentation.

Ready to start? Click the official setup page to begin your step-by-step install and follow the verification instructions for your model.

Start at trezor.io/start ➜