Why start your Trezor correctly?
Hardware wallets like Trezor protect private keys by keeping them offline. That also means the very first moments — unboxing, firmware, and seed backup — are the most important. A careful setup reduces the chance of user error, tampering, and lost funds.
What you’ll need before you begin
Unbox your Trezor and make sure the package looks intact. You’ll need a computer or mobile device, a USB cable (or adapter), and a safe place to write down your recovery seed. Allow ~15 minutes for a full set-up flow under normal conditions. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Important: verify authenticity
If the device shows signs of tampering, do not proceed. Contact official support and follow their guidance — devices are shipped and verified using steps shown on Trezor’s get-started pages. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Step-by-step: first boot to wallet
1. Connect & open Trezor Suite
Plug your Trezor into your computer. The recommended interface is Trezor Suite — the official app for device initialization and coin management. It provides a guided flow to install firmware, create a wallet, set a PIN, and write down your recovery. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
2. Install firmware
New Trezor devices may be shipped without firmware. The Suite will prompt you to install the latest firmware — do not skip this. Firmware updates patch security fixes and are authenticated during installation. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
3. Create a wallet, set a PIN
Follow on-screen instructions to generate your wallet. Choose a PIN you’ll remember but which cannot be guessed easily. The PIN prevents local use of the device even if it's physically stolen.
Backup: the recovery seed
When your device generates a recovery seed (typically 12, 18, or 24 words), write it down on the included card or a metallized backup — and store it securely offline. Never photograph or type your seed. This is the single most important backup for recovering funds.
Security best practices (do this always)
Keep your seed offline
Never enter seed words into a website, email, or a mobile app. If someone has the seed, they have your funds.
Verify websites & downloads
Use official links for downloads and support. Bookmark the official Trezor start page and support pages so you don’t rely on search results or phishing lookalikes. Official resources provide step-by-step guides and troubleshooting. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Use a passphrase cautiously
Advanced users may enable a passphrase to create hidden wallets (an additional layer). Passphrases extend security but add complexity: losing the passphrase means losing access to that hidden wallet.
Troubleshooting & support
If the Suite does not detect your Trezor, follow the official troubleshooting guides and support channels. Trezor offers a knowledge-base, community forum, and direct support options for ticketed issues and device concerns. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
When to contact support
Contact support if you see physical tampering, repeated firmware or connection errors, or if you suspect a compromised environment. Never give your seed to support — they do not need it.
Keeping your setup healthy
Update Trezor Suite & firmware
Periodically update the Suite app and its firmware only via official channels. These updates keep your device compatible with new coin types and introduce important fixes. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Move small test amounts first
When sending funds to a newly created wallet, move a small test amount first. Confirm it arrives and that addresses match what your device displays.
Final checklist
- Device looks untampered
- Firmware installed via official Trezor Suite
- PIN set and securely stored
- Recovery seed written and stored offline
- Official support links bookmarked