Trézor® Hardware® - Wallet | Starting Up Your Device | Trézor® Official Guide

The Trézor® Hardware Wallet is a premier solution for securely storing cryptocurrencies offline. As the world of digital assets grows, so does the importance of robust, private, and secure storage. This guide will walk you through starting up your Trézor® device, ensuring a smooth and secure onboarding experience for new users.

Why Choose Trézor® Hardware Wallet?

Before diving into setup, it's essential to understand why millions trust Trézor® for crypto storage:

• Cold Storage Security: Keeps your private keys offline and safe from hackers.
• Multi-Currency Support: Supports 1000+ cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and more.
• User-Friendly Interface: Seamlessly integrates with Trézor Suite software for easy management.
• Open-Source Firmware: Transparent and independently verified for security.
• Backup & Recovery: Provides a 12 to 24-word seed phrase to recover funds in emergencies.

What’s in the Trézor® Box?

Your Trézor® package includes:

• Trézor® device (Model T or One)
• USB cable (Type-C or Micro USB, depending on model)
• Recovery seed cards
• Lanyard (Model T)
• Magnetic dock (Model T, optional)
• User manual & stickers

Always buy your device from Trezor.io or authorized resellers to avoid tampered devices.

Starting Up Your Trézor® Hardware Wallet

Step 1: Connect Your Trézor®

1. Plug your Trézor® into your computer using the provided USB cable.
2. Visit trezor.io/start on your browser.
3. Choose your device model: Trézor Model One or Model T.

This page will automatically guide you to install the latest Trézor Suite software.

Step 2: Install Trézor® Suite

Trézor® Suite is the official desktop application used to manage your wallet, coins, and device settings.

• Download for Windows, macOS, or Linux.
• Install and launch the application.
• Connect your Trézor® when prompted.
• Confirm the connection on your hardware device.

Step 3: Firmware Installation

Trézor® devices are shipped without firmware to ensure integrity.

• Upon connection, Suite will prompt you to install the latest firmware.
• Confirm firmware installation on the device screen.
• Wait for the device to reboot.

Never disconnect your device during firmware installation.

Step 4: Create a New Wallet

Once firmware is installed:

1. Click "Create New Wallet".
2. The device will generate a new seed phrase (recovery phrase) – 12 or 24 words depending on the model.
3. Write down the seed phrase on the provided recovery card.
4. Do not take a photo or store it digitally.
5. Confirm the words on your device in the correct order to verify backup.

This seed is the only way to recover your wallet in case of device loss or failure.

Step 5: Set a Strong PIN

Security is enhanced with a PIN:

• Choose a 4 to 9-digit PIN using the randomized matrix on your Trézor® screen.
• Confirm the PIN by entering it twice.
• Avoid easily guessable patterns like "1234" or "0000".

Your device will reset after too many incorrect PIN attempts, ensuring protection against brute force attacks.

Managing Your Wallet via Trézor® Suite

After setup, you’ll be redirected to your Trézor Suite dashboard where you can:

• View balances across supported assets.
• Send and receive cryptocurrencies securely.
• Label transactions for organization.
• Enable hidden wallets for extra privacy.
• Manage passphrase protection, device name, and security settings.

Use Watch-Only Mode for viewing balances without connecting your device.

Advanced Security Features

1. Passphrase Protection (Optional)

Add an additional word (passphrase) to your recovery seed for creating hidden wallets.

• Enhances security in case of seed compromise.
• Each passphrase creates a new unique wallet.
• Can be enabled in Suite → Device Settings.

2. Shamir Backup (Model T Only)

Split your recovery seed into multiple shares (e.g., 3 of 5) using Shamir Secret Sharing:

• Store different shares in different physical locations.
• Requires a threshold (e.g., 3 shares) to recover the wallet.
• Ideal for high-net-worth users or institutional storage.

Best Practices for Trézor® Security

1. Never share your recovery seed with anyone.
2. Enable device passphrase for added protection.
3. Avoid third-party wallets that don’t integrate officially with Trézor.
4. Regularly update firmware to patch vulnerabilities.
5. Check device integrity (hologram seals for Model One) upon delivery.
6. Backup your recovery seed in a secure location (consider metal backups).
7. Use strong PINs and change them periodically.

Restoring Wallets on a New or Reset Device

If you lose access to your device:

1. Purchase a new Trézor® from trezor.io.
2. Follow the same startup process.
3. Choose "Recover Wallet" instead of "Create New Wallet".
4. Enter your original recovery seed via the device interface.
5. Your wallet, balances, and transaction history will be restored.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

IssueSolutionDevice not recognizedTry different USB port or cable. Restart Suite.Suite not detecting deviceEnsure firmware is installed, browser permissions enabled.Forgotten PINReset device → Recover using seed phrase.Lost seed phraseIrrecoverable – funds are permanently lost. Always back it up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use my Trézor® on multiple computers?

A: Yes, as long as you have Trézor Suite installed and your device connected.

Q: What happens if I lose my device?

A: Recover your wallet on another Trézor® using your recovery seed.

Q: Is Trézor® Suite available on mobile?

A: Not yet, but you can use third-party apps like Exodus or WalletConnect-compatible apps carefully.

Q: Are my coins stored on the device?

A: No. Coins remain on the blockchain. The device stores your private keys, which control your funds.

Conclusion

Starting up your Trézor® Hardware Wallet is a crucial step in securing your crypto assets. With easy setup, industry-leading security features, and user-friendly software, Trézor® offers peace of mind in a world of digital threats. Whether you're a beginner or experienced investor, Trézor® ensures your crypto remains safe, accessible, and under your control.

For enhanced protection, always buy from official sources, keep your recovery seed safe, and regularly update your device and software. With Trézor®, you take full ownership of your digital wealth — safely and simply.