

Setting up a hardware wallet for the first time can feel technical, but the official Trezor.io/start portal is specifically designed to guide you step-by-step through a secure initialization process. Whether you're new to cryptocurrency or an experienced self-custody user, following the official onboarding flow ensures your device is authentic, updated, and configured with maximum security.
This comprehensive guide walks through every stage of the setup process in detail, explains why each step matters, and highlights important security best practices along the way.
Trezor.io/start is the official setup and onboarding page provided by Trezor. It serves as the only trusted entry point for initializing a new Trezor hardware wallet.
Through this portal, you will:
Using the official site is critical. Hardware wallets protect private keys offline — but phishing websites often attempt to trick users into revealing recovery seeds. Always verify you are visiting the correct domain before proceeding.
Trezor.io/start supports:
Both models follow a similar initialization process, though the Model T features a touchscreen interface while the Model One uses physical buttons.
To ensure a smooth and secure setup, prepare the following:
Unbox your device and inspect it carefully. Trezor devices do not come pre-configured with firmware — this is intentional and protects against tampering.
Check for:
If anything appears suspicious, contact official Trezor support before proceeding.
Use the cable included in the package. Faulty or low-quality cables can cause connectivity interruptions during firmware installation.
Trezor Suite supports:
A stable internet connection is required for downloading official software and firmware.
You must write your recovery seed phrase down by hand.
Never:
Digital copies are vulnerable to malware and hacking.
Choose a quiet environment free from interruptions. Mistakes during seed backup can result in permanent loss of funds.
Open your browser and manually type:
Security checks:
Never rely on:
Phishing sites often look identical to official pages.
Trezor Suite is the official desktop and web interface used to manage your hardware wallet.
Provides:
Download only from the official Trezor website.
Accessible via browser, but may require:
For maximum reliability, the desktop app is recommended.
After download:
Connect your Trezor device via USB.
Because new devices ship without firmware, Trezor Suite will prompt firmware installation.
This is normal and intentional.
Shipping without firmware:
Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
Important:
Once firmware is installed, choose:
Recommended for first-time users.
Your device will generate:
The seed is generated offline on the device itself.
This means:
If you previously had a wallet:
Be extremely cautious: Only enter your recovery seed directly on the device (Model T touchscreen or secure entry method on Model One).
Never type it into a website.
Your recovery seed is the master key to your crypto.
If your device is:
The recovery seed restores access to your funds.
✔ Write it clearly on the provided recovery card ✔ Store it in a fireproof, waterproof location ✔ Consider a metal seed backup for long-term durability ✔ Store copies in geographically separate secure locations
✘ Share it ✘ Enter it into any website ✘ Store it digitally ✘ Reveal it to support staff
Anyone with your seed controls your funds.
Trezor may ask you to confirm certain words to ensure accuracy — complete this step carefully.
Your PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access.
Choose:
After multiple incorrect attempts, the device introduces time delays, significantly slowing brute-force attacks.
Adds an additional custom secret on top of your seed.
Benefits:
Important: If you forget your passphrase, funds cannot be recovered — even with your seed.
Trezor Suite includes:
These tools provide deeper control over transaction privacy and management.
After setup:
Supported assets include:
When receiving crypto: Always verify the address directly on your Trezor device screen.
Malware can alter addresses displayed on your computer — the device display is the trusted source.
To maintain long-term safety:
Crypto self-custody means full responsibility — but also full control.
Unlike exchange wallets:
This is the foundation of true decentralized self-custody.
Using Trezor.io/start ensures:
By carefully following each official step, you create a hardened security environment where your private keys remain offline and under your exclusive control.
Take your time. Double-check everything. Secure your recovery seed properly.
With proper setup and disciplined security habits, your Trezor device becomes one of the safest methods available for long-term cryptocurrency storage.