Welcome — this concise, practical guide walks you through unboxing, initializing, securing, and using your Trezor hardware wallet. It includes best practices, safety tips, and direct links to official Trezor resources.
Make sure you have your Trezor device (Model One, Model T, or Trezor Safe), the original USB cable, a computer or supported mobile device, and a secure place to store your wallet backup.
Use a trusted computer, avoid public Wi-Fi during setup, and ensure you download the official Trezor Suite application from Trezor's website. Do not accept firmware or software from third-party sites.
Inspect packaging for tamper-evidence. If anything looks suspicious, contact Trezor Support immediately. Only proceed if the device appears factory-sealed.
Download and verify Trezor Suite from the official site, then install the desktop app or use the web app for setup. Trezor will prompt you to install firmware on first connection — this is normal and required.
Follow the OS-specific installation steps provided on the official download page.
Choose to create a new wallet if you are starting fresh, or recover an existing wallet using your wallet backup words if replacing a lost device.
Set a PIN on the device. This protects the device if it is physically stolen. Choose a PIN you can remember but isn’t obvious.
A passphrase adds an extra layer of security and creates a separate hidden wallet. Only use passphrases if you understand the risks and backup requirements; losing your passphrase means losing access.
Trezor refers to the recovery information as a wallet backup. Record your wallet backup following Trezor's official guidance: write the words physically on backup cards, store them offline in a secure place, and never take photos or save them digitally.
Depending on model and settings, backups can be 12, 20, or 24 words (or use SLIP39 options). Choose the option that matches your security model and follow Trezor's recommendations.
Start with a small test transfer from an exchange or hot wallet. Confirm receipt on-chain and in Trezor Suite before moving larger amounts. Use the device to sign transactions — Trezor will show details on its screen for confirmation.
Never store wallet backups digitally. Use fireproof safes or secure deposit boxes for long-term storage.
Regularly update firmware and Trezor Suite from official channels. Verify downloads using checksums or the Suite's verification flow.
Always confirm you are on trezor.io and never enter backup words on any website or share them with anyone claiming to help.
If your computer doesn't detect the Trezor, try a different USB port, use the original cable, and ensure Trezor Suite is running. On some operating systems you may need to allow the app or install a driver.
Retry the firmware install in Trezor Suite. If the problem persists, consult Trezor's official firmware troubleshooting page or contact support. Do not attempt unofficial firmware images.
If you lose your wallet backup and still have access to a device, generate a new backup by creating a new wallet and transferring funds. If both device and backup are lost, recovery is unlikely — this highlights the importance of disciplined backups.
Passphrases are powerful but dangerous if mishandled. A passphrase is effectively a 25th word — keep it secret and memorized or stored in a separate secure location. Test recovery using a secondary device or controlled environment before relying on it for large sums.
Trezor supports advanced setups such as multisig wallets and seedless modes for specialized workflows. These configurations provide extra resilience but require careful planning and knowledge.
Trezor works with a variety of third-party wallets and web3 apps via WalletConnect and other integrations. Only connect to reputable services and confirm transaction details on your Trezor device before approving.
No device is absolutely immune, but Trezor's design minimizes attack surfaces by keeping private keys offline. Combine hardware security with safe practices (offline backups, verified firmware, PINs, passphrases) to reduce risks.
Purchase hardware wallets directly from trezor.io or authorized retailers to avoid tampered devices. If you buy second-hand, assume it is compromised and do a full wipe and firmware reinstall before use.
Use Trezor Suite to check for firmware updates. Always verify the update flow and download updates only through the official application or site.