Trezor.io/start — Secure, Simple, and Ready to Use

Why Trezor matters

Hardware wallets put your private keys on a small, dedicated device so that sensitive operations — like signing transactions or revealing addresses — happen offline. Trezor hardware combined with Trezor Suite (the companion app) gives you a reliable balance of security and usability.

This guide explains the practical steps to go from opening the box to confidently sending and receiving crypto, plus the security routines that protect your funds over the long term.

1. Download Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is available as a desktop application and a web app. Both provide the same core flows for setup, account management, and firmware updates — choose the one that best fits your workflow.

Desktop vs Web app — which to pick?

• Desktop: recommended if you want an app that lives locally on your computer and can be used offline for extended periods.
• Web: convenient if you switch between devices often or prefer not to install extra software. Use a modern browser (Chrome, Edge, Brave).

Safe download practices

1. Visit the official source for downloads — always verify the domain in your address bar.
2. Check the installer checksum if provided (advanced users).
3. Install only signed binaries and updates delivered through the Suite itself.

Reminder: third-party installers or modified packages can contain malware. Only install software you trust.

2. Initialize your Trezor

Initialization should be done in a calm, private setting. Read each prompt on both your computer and the Trezor device screen — the device is the source of truth for sensitive confirmations.

New device: create a wallet

1. Connect your Trezor to the computer using the official cable. Unlock the device if asked.
2. Open Trezor Suite and select Create new wallet.
3. The device will generate a recovery seed (commonly 12, 18, or 24 words). Write the words down in order — do not use screenshots or digital notes.
4. Confirm your written seed when prompted by the device.
5. Set a PIN code. A PIN prevents someone with physical access from using your device without authorization.
6. Decide whether to enable a passphrase (advanced users only). Passphrases create hidden wallets; losing the passphrase is like losing the wallet.

Recovering from a seed

If you already have a recovery seed from a previous device or backup, choose Recover wallet in the Suite and enter each word exactly as stored. The device will recreate the same accounts tied to that seed.

3. Everyday workflows

Once set up, Trezor Suite handles common tasks: adding accounts, receiving funds, sending transactions, and optionally swapping between assets.

Adding and viewing accounts

Open Accounts in Suite, choose the cryptocurrency to add, and the Suite will create the appropriate derived account from your seed. Balances and transaction history synchronize with public block explorers, but private keys remain on your Trezor.

Receiving crypto

1. Choose the account and click Receive.
2. Suite shows an address and asks you to confirm it on-device — verify the address on the Trezor screen before sharing.
3. Use that confirmed address for the incoming transfer.

Sending crypto

1. Click Send, paste the recipient address, set the amount, and choose a fee level.
2. Review the transaction summary in the Suite and on your device display. Confirm only if both match your intent.
3. Approve the transaction on the device; it will be signed and broadcast to the network.

Swaps and exchanges (optional)

Some Suite versions include third-party swap integrations. These are convenient but may attract different fees or regional restrictions. Always review exchange partner details before confirming a trade.

4. Security essentials & best practices

Hardware wallets dramatically reduce online theft risk, but you’re still responsible for safe habits. The following practices are highest priority.

Seed management

• Write your seed on durable material. Keep at least one offline backup in a secure location.
• Consider metal seed backups for fire, water, and time resistance.
• Never store your seed in cloud storage, email, photos, or password managers.

PIN and physical safety

• Choose a PIN that is memorable but not trivially guessable (avoid birthdays or common sequences).
• Keep the seed and device in separate physical places when possible.
• If your device is lost or stolen, the thief still needs the PIN (and passphrase) to use it.

Passphrase—powerful but risky

Passphrases provide an extra hidden wallet derived from your seed. They are powerful for privacy or splitting funds, but forgetting the passphrase means permanent loss of that hidden wallet. Treat passphrases like another secret seed.

Software & firmware updates

Check Suite for official firmware updates frequently. Updates can add new features and important security fixes. Only apply updates that are signed and delivered through Suite.

5. Troubleshooting & recovery scenarios

Device not detected

If Suite doesn’t detect your Trezor, try a different USB port and cable, ensure the device is unlocked, and reboot the computer. On some OSes you may need to grant USB permissions.

Forgot PIN

Entering incorrect PINs repeatedly will reset the device after the maximum allowed attempts. If this happens, you can restore using your recovery seed. Without the seed, funds are unrecoverable.

Lost recovery seed

Firmware update interrupted

If a firmware update fails, follow the device's on-screen instructions. Avoid disconnecting the device during flashing. If problems persist, consult official support (without sharing your seed or private data).

6. Frequently asked questions

Can I use Trezor Suite on more than one computer?

Yes. Your Trezor device is portable — connect it to any trusted computer and open Suite to access your accounts after unlocking the device.

Is my recovery seed the same as my private key?

The seed is a human-readable representation (BIP39-style) that can regenerate your private keys. Protect it as you would a private key.

What if I want to sell or give away my device?

Before transferring a device, wipe it from the Suite and ensure the buyer sets up their own new seed. Do not transfer a device containing any sensitive data or unknown ownership history.

Are transactions visible to anyone?

Transactions are visible on their respective public blockchains, but private keys remain secure on your Trezor. Consider using privacy practices (like fresh addresses) when needed.

7. Additional resources & next steps

After setup, explore these routines to maintain security and confidence:

• Perform a small test transaction before moving large amounts.
• Keep a log of firmware versions and device model for your records.
• Use official documentation and community forums for advanced topics like multisig or coin-specific features.

If you need assistance, contact official support channels and never disclose your recovery seed or passphrase to anyone claiming to help.

Wrap-up

Trezor hardware + Trezor Suite create a dependable workflow for owning and controlling cryptocurrency. The combination of offline key storage and a carefully designed app reduces exposure to online threats while keeping everyday tasks smooth and predictable.

Follow the core rules: keep your seed offline, use a PIN, verify addresses on-device, and install official updates. With those habits in place you’ll be ready to securely manage digital assets for years to come.

Go to Trezor Suite