Why Choose Trezor?
The gold standard in cold storage solutions.
Uncompromising Security
Your private keys never leave the device. Trezor isolates your sensitive data from online threats, ensuring that even if your computer is compromised, your coins remain safe.
Open Source Design
Transparency is key to trust. Trezor's hardware and software designs are open-source, allowing the community to verify the integrity of the security architecture.
Universal Compatibility
Whether you hold Bitcoin, Ethereum, or thousands of other altcoins, Trezor supports a vast ecosystem of digital assets, all manageable through the Trezor Suite app.
Getting Started: The Trezor.io/Start Process
Setting up your hardware wallet is the most critical step in your crypto journey. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your device is initialized correctly and securely.
Unboxing and Inspection
Before you even plug in your device, inspect the packaging. Your Trezor should arrive with a holographic tamper-evident seal. If this seal is broken, missing, or looks tampered with, do not use the device. Contact Trezor support immediately. This physical security check is your first line of defense against supply chain attacks.
Connect and Navigate to Trezor.io/Start
Use the USB cable provided in the box to connect your Trezor to your computer. Once connected, open your preferred web browser and navigate to trezor.io/start. This is the official landing page for downloading the companion software, Trezor Suite.
Warning: Always verify the URL in your browser bar. Phishing sites often mimic the official address. Ensure it reads exactly "trezor.io".
Install Trezor Suite
From the start page, download the Trezor Suite application for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Trezor Suite is the interface you will use to manage your funds. While a web version exists, the desktop application is generally recommended for better security and privacy.
Firmware Installation
Your Trezor device ships without firmware installed. This is a security feature to ensure the latest, uncorrupted software is installed by you. Follow the prompts in Trezor Suite to install the latest firmware. During this process, verify that the fingerprint on your computer screen matches the one displayed on your Trezor device.
Create Wallet & Backup
This is the most crucial step. You will be asked to create a new wallet. The device will generate a unique Recovery Seed (usually 12 to 24 words). Write these words down on the provided recovery cards in the exact order shown.
NEVER store your recovery seed digitally. Do not take a photo of it, do not type it into a computer, and do not save it to the cloud. Your recovery seed is the master key to your funds. If your device is lost or broken, this seed is the only way to recover your assets.
Security Best Practices
Mastering the art of self-custody.
The Golden Rule: Not Your Keys, Not Your Coins
When you leave your crypto on an exchange, you don't actually own it; you own an IOU. Exchanges can be hacked, go bankrupt, or freeze your account. By moving your assets to a Trezor hardware wallet, you take full ownership. The private keys are generated and stored offline within the secure element of the device, making them immune to remote attacks.
- Offline key generation
- PIN protection against physical theft
- Passphrase support for plausible deniability
Cold Storage
The ultimate protection against online threats.
Phishing Awareness
Hackers often create fake versions of Trezor.io/Start or Trezor Suite. Never enter your recovery seed into any website or software pop-up. Your Trezor device is the ONLY place you should ever enter your seed words.
Verify Downloads
Always download Trezor Suite from the official source. You can verify the GPG signature of the download file to ensure it hasn't been tampered with by a third party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common queries about setting up your Trezor.