Before you begin — quick checklist
- Buy only from authorized sellers. Unopened packaging and a trusted seller reduce the risk of tampering.
- Choose a private, well-lit space where you can focus while writing down sensitive recovery information.
- Have a pen and recovery backup (metal backup or dedicated seed storage) ready. Never store seeds digitally (no photos, no cloud notes).
- Use a clean computer with up-to-date OS and browser. Avoid public or untrusted machines.
Step-by-step initialization (overview)
The initialization flow is designed to be straightforward. Below is an overview of the typical process; follow the on-screen prompts from the official start page while prioritizing the security tips included.
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Unbox and inspect the device.
Check tamper-evident stickers or seals, read the included pamphlet, and confirm the device model matches your purchase. If anything looks suspicious, contact support or the vendor before proceeding.
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Connect to your computer and visit the official start page.
Open your browser and navigate to the official start page for your device. The website will guide you to install any necessary bridge software or the official Trezor Suite app if required.
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Install or update firmware (if prompted).
It's normal for a brand-new device to require an official firmware update. Follow the on-screen instructions and never interrupt the update once it starts.
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Choose how to set up your device: create new or recover.
Create new if you're starting fresh. Recover is used if you already have a recovery seed from another wallet—enter it carefully on-screen using the device when required.
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Create a PIN code.
The device will prompt you to choose a PIN. Pick something memorable yet not guessable; the PIN adds an extra layer so that even if someone has the device they cannot access keys without it.
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Write down your recovery seed.
The device will display a set of words (usually 12, 18, or 24) — this is your recovery seed. Write the words down in order on the supplied card or a secure metal backup. Confirm the words when asked. This seed is the single most important backup—anyone with it can control your funds.
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Finalize and test.
After confirmation, the device may run a short setup test. You can optionally send a small test transaction to and from the device to confirm everything is functioning correctly.
Tip: During setup the device displays sensitive prompts on its own screen. Always verify the words or numbers shown on the hardware display match what you expect on your computer—this prevents certain types of MITM attacks.
Warning: Never share your recovery seed, PIN, or passphrase with anyone. Do not store your seed in plain text on a computer, phone, or photo backup. Treat it like cash.
Security best practices
Initialization is only the beginning. Follow these ongoing best practices to keep control of your crypto:
- Use a strong PIN and a passphrase (optional): A passphrase adds an extra hidden wallet derived from your seed—powerful, but use it only if you understand how to back it up safely.
- Store backups offline: Multiple secure copies (e.g., one at home, one at a safety deposit box) reduce the single-point-of-failure risk, but distribute them thoughtfully.
- Keep firmware up to date: Firmware updates include security patches. Only apply official updates through the device’s valid update mechanism.
- Be phishing-aware: Bookmark the official start page and never follow random links asking for your seed or to install unverified software.
- Use passphrase protection carefully: If you use a passphrase, record it and treat it as part of your recovery. Losing it can make funds inaccessible.
When to recover an existing wallet
Recovering is used if you already have a recovery seed from another device or a previous Trezor. Only recover if you trust the seed’s origin. Entering your seed into any device or software exposes it; prefer to recover on the hardware device itself rather than typing it into a computer whenever possible.
Top 5 FAQs
- 1. What if my Trezor asks for a firmware update during setup?
- It’s normal. Install updates only when connected to the official start app or suite and never interrupt the process. Firmware updates fix vulnerabilities and improve device stability.
- 2. How should I store my recovery seed?
- Write the seed on paper or preferably record it on a durable, fire-resistant medium (metal plate). Store copies in physically separate, secure locations. Never take photos or store copies online.
- 3. Can I initialize my Trezor on a public computer?
- No. Use a personal, trusted computer. Public or compromised computers may try to phish or intercept communications during setup.
- 4. What if I lose my Trezor?
- If you lose the device, your crypto is still safe as long as your recovery seed is secure and the PIN/passphrase haven’t been compromised. Use the seed to recover funds to another compatible hardware wallet or software wallet that supports the same seed standard.
- 5. Is my recovery seed compatible with other wallets?
- Most seeds follow standard formats (BIP39/BIP32) and can be used to recover into many compatible wallets. However, compatibility can vary with passphrases and advanced derivation paths—only perform recovery in devices or software you trust and understand.
Final thoughts
Initializing your Trezor is a quick process when you follow a cautious, security-first approach. Take your time during the seed-writing step, double-check what’s shown on the hardware screen, and keep your backups physically secure. With these habits, you will greatly reduce the risk of loss or theft and enjoy the advantages of self-custody.
Visit official start page