Before you begin — hardware & safety checklist

• Buy only from official channels or an authorized reseller to avoid tampered devices.
• Have a clean, offline space for writing down your recovery seed (no photos, no screenshots).
• Ensure you have a computer with a supported browser and a reliable internet connection for software downloads.
• Keep a pen and the provided recovery card (or a notebook) ready for your seed words.

Step-by-step setup (what you'll do at Trezor.io/Start)

1. Open the official start page: Visit the start portal to download necessary software and follow on-screen prompts.
2. Connect your Trezor: Plug in the device via USB. Your Trezor will display a unique boot screen—verify that it matches the official instructions.
3. Install required firmware/software: If firmware updates are needed, the portal will guide you. Only proceed with updates from the official site.
4. Create your PIN: Choose a PIN you can remember but which isn’t easily guessed. The PIN protects access to the device if it’s lost or stolen.
5. Write down your recovery seed: The device will generate a 12- or 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down in order, store it offline, and never share it.
6. Confirm the seed: Your Trezor will ask you to confirm a few words to ensure your backup is accurate.
7. Install a wallet interface: Depending on the coins you plan to use, the start page points you to compatible wallet apps and integrations.
8. Receive and verify a small transaction: Send a test amount to your new Trezor-managed address and confirm it on-device to validate everything is functioning.

Security best practices

Follow these practices to keep your funds secure:

• Never enter your recovery seed into a computer, phone, or online form.
• Store the seed phrase offline in at least two secure locations (preferably in fireproof/waterproof storage).
• Use a passphrase (optional advanced feature) for an extra layer of security — but store it safely and separately from your seed words.
• Be cautious of phishing: always confirm the site domain is correct and never trust unsolicited links asking for seed words or PIN.

Troubleshooting common issues

If your device is not recognized, try the following:

• Use a different USB cable or port and avoid USB hubs where possible.
• Restart your browser or computer and ensure you’re using a supported browser (latest version recommended).
• Confirm firmware is up to date via the official start portal; do not install firmware from third-party sources.
• If you suspect tampering or a device integrity issue, contact Trezor support and refrain from entering your seed until you’ve confirmed device integrity.

Why choose a hardware wallet?

Hardware wallets like Trezor store private keys in a secure, offline environment, vastly reducing exposure to online threats such as malware and phishing. For anyone holding meaningful amounts of cryptocurrency, a hardware wallet is one of the most effective defenses against loss and theft.

Next steps

After completing Trezor.io/Start, consider the following:

• Set up recurring backups of your seed in secure, geographically separated locations.
• Explore advanced features like multi-account management and passphrases.
• Familiarize yourself with recovery procedures before you need them.

When you’re ready, return to the official start portal to continue safely: Trezor.io/Start.