Trezor.io/Start® - Starting® Up Your Device

What is Trezor.io/Start?

Trezor.io/Start is the official onboarding page provided by SatoshiLabs (the makers of Trezor hardware wallets) that guides users through the initial setup of a Trezor device. The page contains the authenticated links, step-by-step instructions, and downloads required to initialize, update firmware, and connect your Trezor to Trezor Suite or other wallets.

The reason to use Trezor.io/Start is security: it ensures you are working with official, verified software and reduces the risk of using a malicious copy of wallet software. Always check that you're on the correct domain (Trezor.io) and that your browser displays a secure connection (HTTPS).

Why use a hardware wallet (and why start at Trezor.io/Start)?

A hardware wallet like Trezor stores your private keys offline on the device itself, protecting them from phishing websites, malware, and other online attacks. Starting at Trezor.io/Start guarantees that you're following the vendor-approved flow to set up the device, install firmware, and recover accounts securely.

Offline key storage: Private keys never leave the device.
Verified firmware: The start page helps you check and update firmware through official channels.
Clear recovery steps: The onboarding flow walks you through creating and storing a recovery seed safely.

Before you begin: what you'll need

Before going to Trezor.io/Start, gather the following items and take a few simple precautions:

Your new or factory-reset Trezor device (Trezor Model One or Model T).
A computer (Windows / macOS / Linux) with a modern browser, or a supported mobile device if you use Trezor Suite Mobile.
A USB cable that fits your Trezor device (usually supplied with the device).
A clean, well-lit surface to write down your recovery seed phrase securely.
Optional: a dedicated notebook or the official Trezor recovery card to store your seed phrase.

Safety tip: Never enter your recovery seed on any website or computer. The only time you should write down your seed is while following the device prompts during initial setup — and it should be stored physically and securely, offline.

Step-by-step: Setting up your Trezor using Trezor.io/Start

This step-by-step covers the typical onboarding flow when you visit Trezor.io/Start and follow the official prompts.

1. Verify the official page

Open your browser and type trezor.io/start into the address bar. Confirm that the site uses HTTPS and the domain is exactly trezor.io. Avoid clicking links from untrusted sources — always navigate directly.

2. Download Trezor Suite (if needed)

The start page will usually give you the option to download Trezor Suite (the official desktop app) or continue with a compatible browser wallet. We recommend Trezor Suite for the most integrated experience: firmware updates, device management, app marketplace, and more are accessible there.

3. Connect your device

Plug the Trezor into your computer using a USB cable. The device screen will show a welcome message. On the website or in the Suite, click the button to continue. Follow the on-screen prompts; the Trezor will request button presses to confirm actions.

4. Install or update firmware

On first use, the Trezor may need firmware installation. The official flow at Trezor.io/Start provides a secure firmware installation routine that signs firmware with Trezor’s keys — this prevents malicious firmware. Follow the instructions exactly and do not interrupt the process.

5. Create a new wallet (generate seed)

During setup, the device will generate a recovery seed (a list of 12, 18, or 24 words depending on your device/options). The words are displayed on the device screen — not on your computer. Write them down in order on the recovery card or in a notebook. Store this physical copy in a safe place.

6. Set a PIN

The device will prompt you to set a PIN. This protects the device if it is lost or stolen — the PIN is required to unlock it and to sign transactions. Choose a PIN you can remember but do not write it down where it can be easily found with your device.

7. Confirm recovery and finish

After writing down your seed, the device will ask you to confirm a few words by selecting them on the screen. This ensures you copied the seed correctly. Once confirmed, your wallet is ready: you can receive funds and perform transactions through Trezor Suite or compatible wallets.

Security best practices after using Trezor.io/Start

Setting up your device correctly is just the start. Follow these security practices to keep your crypto safe:

Never disclose your recovery seed: Anyone with your seed can access your funds without the device.
Store seed offline: Use a fireproof safe, bank deposit box, or another secure physical location. Consider steel seed storage for extra durability.
Beware phishing: Always type trezor.io/start directly into your browser and verify the certificate. Do not follow unsolicited links asking for your seed or PIN.
Use passphrase protection (advanced): Trezor supports an optional passphrase that acts as a 25th word — it creates separate hidden wallets. Use it only if you understand the trade-offs and risks.
Keep firmware up to date: Firmware updates add security improvements. Install updates only when prompted at official sites or via Trezor Suite.

Important: Trezor staff will never ask for your recovery seed, PIN, or passphrase. If you receive such a request, it is a scam.

Troubleshooting common problems with Trezor.io/Start

Even with a smooth flow, you might run into a few hiccups. Here are common issues and how to address them.

My computer doesn't recognize the device

Try a different USB port or cable. Avoid USB hubs for initial setup; connect directly to the computer's USB port. If it still isn't recognized, reboot the computer and try again. On macOS and Windows, check that your browser has permission to access the device (some OS security settings may block access).

Firmware installation failed

If the firmware update fails, do not power-cycle the device immediately. Follow the instructions on the website: often retrying the firmware installation through Trezor Suite fixes transient issues. If problems persist, contact Trezor support and provide serial/device info (never share your recovery seed).

I lost the recovery seed

If you lose the recovery seed and still have access to your Trezor, immediately move funds to a new wallet with a newly generated seed — because if the device is lost or damaged, without the seed you cannot recover funds. If you lost the seed and the device is compromised, assume funds are at risk.

I'm worried about a phishing attempt

If you suspect you visited a fake site or clicked a malicious link, disconnect your Trezor and never enter your seed online. Reboot your computer in safe mode to run malware scans. Consider generating a fresh seed on a new device or using a clean computer.

Using Trezor with other wallets and services

After completing Trezor.io/Start, you can use the device with several wallets and services:

Trezor Suite: Official desktop app for managing coins, firmware, and advanced settings.
Third-party wallets: Trezor integrates with Electrum, Exodus, and many others — but always ensure you use official wallet builds and verify compatibility.
Web apps & dApps: Using the device with web-based apps is possible but exercise extreme caution and confirm site authenticity.

When linking to third-party services, keep your Trezor firmware and host-app up to date and only grant access for transactions you intend to make. For complex DeFi interactions, consider using small test amounts first to ensure the flow behaves as expected.

Advanced options: passphrase and hidden wallets

Trezor offers an optional passphrase feature that acts as a 25th word to your recovery seed. When enabled, the passphrase creates a distinct hidden wallet that is accessible only by entering the passphrase. This can be useful for plausible deniability or storing funds separately, but it introduces complexity:

Passphrase must be memorized or stored securely. If forgotten, funds in that hidden wallet are lost.
Using passphrase increases the risk of mistakes; do not enable it without fully understanding the implications.

If you choose to use it after visiting Trezor.io/Start, practice with small amounts first and document your workflow carefully so you can manage wallets across different machines.

Checklist: After finishing Trezor.io/Start

Use this simple checklist to confirm your setup is secure:

Device connected & recognized by Trezor Suite.
Firmware installed and verified.
PIN set and memorized.
Recovery seed written down and stored offline.
Optional passphrase decision made and documented (if used).
Test transaction completed to confirm receive address and flow.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I create multiple wallets on one Trezor?

A: Yes. One recovery seed can generate many accounts and addresses deterministically. Additionally, you can use the passphrase feature to create separate hidden wallets.

Q: What happens if my Trezor is stolen?

A: If your device is stolen but you have a strong PIN and your recovery seed is secure, the thief cannot access your coins. If you believe the seed has been exposed, move funds immediately to a new wallet.

Q: Is Trezor Suite required?

A: No — but Trezor Suite offers the most feature-rich and secure experience. Some users prefer third-party wallets or browser integrations depending on coin support and personal preferences.

Q: Can I restore my Trezor using the seed?

A: Yes — the whole point of the recovery seed is to restore a wallet on a new or reset device. Use the recovery option in Trezor Suite or on-device prompts to restore from your written seed.

Final thoughts

Starting at Trezor.io/Start provides a secure path to onboard a hardware wallet and manage your crypto with confidence. The most important takeaway is to treat your recovery seed like the keys to a safe — physical, offline, and protected. With the right precautions and careful use of the official start flow, your Trezor will be a strong foundation for long-term crypto custody.

Now that you understand the flow, return to trezor.io/start, follow the official steps, and enjoy the peace of mind a hardware wallet provides.