Trezor® Hardware Wallet | Getting started — Trezor™

Introduction — Why a hardware wallet?

Managing crypto safely starts with the device that holds your private keys. A hardware wallet like Trezor® stores private keys offline, away from malware, browser hacks, and phishing attacks. If you’re new to hardware wallets, this guide walks you through everything: what to expect, how to set up your Trezor™, best security practices, daily usage tips, and how to recover if something goes wrong.

What you get in the box

Standard contents

• Hardware device (Trezor Model)
• USB cable
• Recovery seed cards (paper) or stickers
• Quick start manual and security card
• Packaging with tamper-evident seals (if purchased new)

First thing first: inspect the device

Make sure the packaging hasn’t been tampered with. Trezor packaging is designed to be tamper-evident — if anything looks off, contact support before proceeding. Always buy from the official store or authorized resellers to avoid counterfeit devices.

Step-by-step setup

1) Get the official software

Use the official Trezor Wallet or a recommended third-party wallet. Avoid random browser extensions. The links above point to official entry points where you can download firmware and wallet apps.

2) Connect your Trezor

Unbox the device and connect it to your computer using the provided USB cable. The device screen will show a welcoming message and prompt you to visit the official site. Always confirm you are on an official site before proceeding.

3) Install firmware (if necessary)

New devices sometimes require a firmware update. Follow the on-screen instructions in the official Trezor setup flow. Firmware validates the device and patches security updates. Only accept firmware when prompted by the official app; never install unrelated or unsigned firmware.

4) Create a new wallet

The device will generate a new seed (recovery phrase). Write this down on the supplied recovery cards — do not screenshot or store it digitally. The recovery phrase is the single most important piece of information: it restores all your keys if the device is lost or destroyed.

5) Set a PIN

You will be asked to set a device PIN. This PIN locks the device and prevents someone with physical access from spending your assets. Use a PIN you can remember (or store securely in a password manager). The PIN is entered on-screen with randomized keypad positions on the device to block keyloggers.

6) Verify the seed

The device will ask you to confirm several words from the seed to verify you wrote them down correctly. This step ensures you have an accurate backup.

7) Add accounts & manage coins

With your device set up, open the official wallet app to add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported coins. Trezor supports many cryptocurrencies natively and via integrations with wallets like MyEtherWallet or other third-party apps.

Security essentials (do these)

Keep the recovery phrase offline

Never store your seed on a phone, computer, cloud, or photo. If someone gets the seed, they control your funds. Paper backups are okay if stored safely; metal backups are better.

Never share your seed or PIN

Support will never ask for your seed or full PIN. If anyone asks for the seed, it's a scam. Treat your seed like cash.

Use passphrases for extra security

Advanced users can add a passphrase (25th/26th word). This creates an additional hidden wallet — powerful but dangerous if you forget the passphrase. Understand the tradeoffs before enabling.

Firmware and software updates

Keep firmware and companion apps updated. Updates often include security fixes. Only install updates from official sources.

How to send and receive crypto

Receiving funds

From the wallet app, choose the account and click “Receive.” Always verify the receiving address on the device screen — malware can alter addresses shown in the browser. Use the address shown on the device.

Sending funds

To send, create a transaction in the app and confirm the details on your Trezor device. You will physically confirm the address and amount using device buttons. This physical confirmation is the core security feature: even if your computer is compromised, an attacker cannot sign transactions without your device.

Transaction fees and confirmations

Fees are chosen by the wallet; choose a fee suitable for the desired confirmation time. For large transfers, consider sending a small test transaction first.

Troubleshooting & common questions

Device not detected

Try a different USB cable, port, or computer. Ensure you are using official apps. If the device still isn’t detected, check firmware and reinstall the wallet app from the official download page.

I lost my device — what now?

If your device is lost but you have your recovery phrase, buy a new Trezor or compatible hardware wallet and restore from your seed. If you lost both device and seed — unfortunately funds are irrecoverable.

My recovery card is damaged — help

If you still have the device and can access the wallet, generate a new seed, transfer funds to the newly created wallet, and store the new seed carefully. If the device is inaccessible and the card is damaged but partially readable, professional recovery tools sometimes help, but prevention is best.

FAQs (short)

• Q: Do I need the internet to use Trezor?
  A: No — the device itself never needs to be online, but you need internet access to broadcast transactions via the wallet app.
• Q: Can I use Trezor with mobile?
  A: Yes — Trezor supports mobile integrations with compatible apps and adapters. Check the official downloads page for the latest supported configurations.
• Q: Is a hardware wallet safe from scams?
  A: It protects your keys, but you must still avoid phishing sites, social engineering, and fake wallets. Always verify URLs and confirm addresses on the device.

Advanced features & integrations

Third-party wallets

Trezor integrates with many wallets and services for advanced features like DeFi, token management, and multisig. When integrating, ensure the third-party service supports hardware-wallet signing and is reputable.

Multisignature setups

For serious security, consider a multisig wallet where multiple devices (or co-signers) are required to sign a transaction. This reduces single-point-of-failure risk for high-value holdings.

Enterprise & power users

Businesses often combine hardware wallets with proper operational security, cold storage policies, and multi-person approval workflows. Consult professional services for large custodial setups.

Final checklist before first use

1. Buy only from official store or authorized resellers.
2. Inspect packaging for tampering.
3. Install firmware only from official sources.
4. Write down the recovery seed and store it securely offline.
5. Set a PIN and, if desired, an additional passphrase.
6. Verify addresses on the physical device before confirming transactions.

If you’re transferring a large amount for the first time, send a small test amount first. It’s a simple habit that prevents costly mistakes.