Introduction to Trezor Hardware Wallets
Trezor is the world's first and most secure hardware wallet, designed to provide unparalleled protection for your cryptocurrencies. By keeping your private keys offline in a secure device, Trezor ensures that your digital assets remain safe from online threats, hackers, and malware.
This guide covers the setup process for both Trezor Model T (with touchscreen) and Trezor One (with button controls). While the specific steps may vary slightly between models, the fundamental security principles remain the same.
Trezor Model T
The premium hardware wallet with color touchscreen, microSD card slot, and support for over 1,600 cryptocurrencies.
- Full-color touchscreen interface
- MicroSD card slot for additional encryption
- Supports more coin types
- USB-C connectivity
Trezor One
The original hardware wallet that started it all, providing robust security at an affordable price point.
- Two-button interface with OLED display
- Support for major cryptocurrencies
- Compact and durable design
- Proven security track record
Before You Begin
Before starting the setup process, ensure you have the following items ready:
- Your Trezor hardware wallet (Model T or One)
- The USB cable that came with your device
- A computer with internet access
- The Trezor.io/start webpage open in your browser
- A pen and the provided recovery seed card (or other durable paper)
- A private, secure environment for the setup process
SECURITY WARNING
Never purchase a used Trezor device, and always verify that the packaging seal is intact. Only download Trezor software from the official trezor.io website. Beware of phishing sites that may mimic the official Trezor website.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
1 Connect Your Trezor Device
Connect your Trezor hardware wallet to your computer using the provided USB cable. For Trezor Model T, you may need to use a USB-C adapter if your computer doesn't have a USB-C port.
If this is your first time connecting the device, you should see a welcome message on your Trezor screen. If you see any other message, your device may have been tampered with.
2 Install Trezor Bridge
Trezor Bridge is a communication tool that allows your Trezor device to interact with web browsers. When you visit Trezor.io/start, the website will automatically detect if you need to install Trezor Bridge and provide download instructions.
Follow the on-screen prompts to download and install Trezor Bridge for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). After installation, you may need to refresh the webpage or restart your browser.
3 Install Firmware
All new Trezor devices come without pre-installed firmware for security reasons. The setup wizard at Trezor.io/start will guide you through the firmware installation process.
Your device will display a confirmation message asking you to install the firmware. Verify that the fingerprint (hash) shown on your Trezor screen matches the one shown in your browser. This ensures you're installing genuine Trezor software.
4 Create Your Wallet
After firmware installation, you'll be prompted to create a new wallet or recover an existing one. Since this is a new device, select "Create new wallet."
You'll then choose between a standard wallet or a hidden wallet (passphrase feature). For most users, we recommend starting with a standard wallet. You can always enable the passphrase feature later for additional security.
5 Backup Your Recovery Seed
This is the most critical step in the setup process. Your recovery seed is a list of 12, 18, or 24 words that can restore access to your cryptocurrencies if your Trezor is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Your Trezor device will display the recovery words one at a time. Write them down in exact order on the provided recovery seed card. Never store your recovery seed digitally—no photos, cloud storage, or text files.
IMPORTANT SECURITY PRACTICES
- Write down the words by hand—never type them on a computer
- Store the recovery card in multiple secure locations
- Never share your recovery seed with anyone
- Trezor will never ask for your recovery seed
- Consider using a metal backup solution for fire/water protection
6 Verify Your Recovery Seed
After writing down your recovery seed, the setup wizard will ask you to verify it by selecting the words in the correct order. This ensures you've properly recorded your recovery seed and can use it if needed.
If you make a mistake during verification, you'll need to start the backup process over with a new recovery seed.
7 Set a PIN
Your PIN provides the first layer of physical security for your Trezor device. The PIN can be up to 9 digits long, and we recommend using the maximum length for optimal security.
The PIN entry uses a randomized matrix shown on both your Trezor screen and in the browser. This prevents keyloggers from capturing your PIN. You'll need to enter your PIN every time you connect your Trezor device.
8 Explore Trezor Suite
Once setup is complete, you'll be directed to Trezor Suite—the official desktop and web application for managing your cryptocurrencies. Trezor Suite provides a secure interface for:
- Viewing your portfolio balances
- Sending and receiving cryptocurrencies
- Exchanging coins through integrated partners
- Accessing advanced features like CoinJoin and labeling
Advanced Security Features
Passphrase Protection
The passphrase feature adds an additional word to your recovery seed, creating a "hidden wallet" within your Trezor device. Even if someone obtains your recovery seed, they cannot access your hidden wallet without the passphrase.
PRO TIP
Use a memorable but complex passphrase that you can recall, but that would be impossible for others to guess. Consider using a passphrase manager if you're concerned about forgetting it.
Shamir Backup
Available on Trezor Model T, Shamir Backup allows you to split your recovery seed into multiple shares. You can set a threshold (e.g., 3-of-5) where only a specific number of shares are needed to recover the wallet. This provides enhanced security while maintaining redundancy.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Device Not Recognized
If your computer doesn't recognize your Trezor device:
- Try a different USB cable or port
- Ensure Trezor Bridge is installed and running
- Restart your browser or computer
- Check if your device needs firmware updates
Connection Issues in Browser
If you're experiencing connection problems:
- Try using a different browser (Chrome and Firefox work best)
- Disable browser extensions that might interfere
- Ensure you're using the official Trezor.io/start website
- Check that your internet connection is stable
Maintaining Your Trezor Wallet
Regular maintenance ensures your Trezor device remains secure and functional:
- Periodically check for firmware updates in Trezor Suite
- Practice recovering your wallet with your seed phrase (using a small amount of crypto)
- Keep your recovery seed safe and consider creating additional copies
- Stay informed about security best practices through official Trezor channels
FINAL RECOMMENDATION
After completing your setup, transfer a small amount of cryptocurrency to your new wallet first. Once you confirm everything is working correctly, you can transfer the remainder of your funds. This helps verify that your backup process was successful.