True Ownership
Private keys never leave your device. Exchanges hold IOUs; your Trézor holds your keys. That’s the difference between asking for access and having it.
Why Start on Trézor.io/Start®?
Because security is a habit, not a one‑time checkbox. Beginning here ensures authentic software, verified firmware, and a setup flow that’s designed to prevent common mistakes from the very first click.
Simple, Not Simplistic
Onboarding is written in plain language and backed by on‑device confirmations. Beginners feel safe, experts get optional power tools.
All‑in‑One Suite
Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, popular tokens, and supported NFTs through a single, clean interface with labeling and portfolio views.
Privacy by Default
No forced data collection. You control what’s shared. Use coin control, account labels, and fresh addresses to keep your history yours.
Resilience Over Time
Regular firmware updates strengthen defenses and improve usability. Each update is approved on‑device to maintain the chain of trust.
Open & Transparent
Security claims are meaningful only when they can be verified. Trézor’s open approach invites scrutiny and earns trust.
💡
Tip: Type URLs yourself. Phishing pages often look near‑identical to the real thing but deliver malicious downloads. Manual entry beats clicking ads.
Starting® Up® Your® Device® — Step‑by‑Step
Move calmly. The attention you invest during setup pays dividends in long‑term safety.
1) Inspect the box & device. Tamper‑evident features and tidy packaging are signs of authenticity. If something looks off, pause and contact support before continuing.
2) Connect directly to your computer. Use the supplied cable and avoid USB hubs during setup. Direct connections reduce the chance of glitches.
3) Go to Trézor.io/Start. Enter the address manually. Only download Trézor Suite from this page to avoid counterfeit installers.
4) Install & open Trézor Suite. The app guides you through firmware verification, device initialization, and creating your first wallet with a PIN.
5) Generate the recovery seed. Write each word clearly on paper or a metal backup. Never photograph or digitize the seed. This is the master key to your funds.
6) Confirm on‑device. Compare receiving addresses and transaction details on the Trézor screen. Your eyes are the last line of defense against malware.
7) Perform a tiny test transaction. Send a small amount first to learn the flow. Confidence grows from repetition, not memory.
8) Label accounts & contacts. Clear labels reduce mistakes, help with budgeting, and simplify taxes without exposing private information.
9) Keep firmware up to date. Update from within Suite when prompted and approve on the device to preserve the trust chain.
10) Store the seed safely. Separate locations, dry conditions, and a fire‑/water‑resistant backup increase resilience.
Ready for next‑level confidence?
Open Security Primer
Read the Security Primer below and learn the mental model that keeps most users safe.
Security in Plain English
Good security isn’t complicated — it’s layered. Here are the layers that protect you day‑to‑day.
Offline Private Keys
Your private keys reside inside the device and never touch the internet. When you sign a transaction, details are displayed on the Trézor, you approve them, and the signature is created internally. The keys never leave.
On‑Device Approvals
Computer screens can be tricked by malware; your Trézor screen is harder to fool. Always compare the address and amount on‑device with what you expect.
Recovery Seed = Master Key
Lose or damage the device? You can restore everything with the seed on a new unit. Treat it like a vault combination: offline only, and known to you alone.
Defense‑in‑Depth
Firmware verification, optional passphrase, PIN attempt throttling, and address confirmation add layers that frustrate both remote attackers and opportunistic thieves.
| Capability | Trézor Hardware Wallet | Exchange Account |
|---|---|---|
| Private Key Ownership | You hold the keys (self‑custody) | Platform holds the keys (custody) |
| Attack Surface | Small, offline, on‑device approvals | Large, always online, single‑point risk |
| Recovery Options | Deterministic seed backup | Dependent on company policy |
| Interoperability | Works with supported wallets & tools | Locked to platform features |
⚠️
Never type the recovery seed into a computer or phone. If any website or app asks for it, it’s a scam. The seed belongs offline — always.
Everyday Tips & Quick Troubleshooting
Build habits that scale with your portfolio. If something goes sideways, use the simple checks below.
Verify On‑Device
Confirm addresses and amounts on the Trézor screen before approving. If the details don’t match expectations, cancel and re‑check.
Start Small
Use a tiny test transaction when sending to a new address or network. Successful repetitions build reliable muscle memory.
Label Everything
Inside Suite, label accounts and contacts. Clear names reduce confusion and help during audits or tax season.
Update From Suite
When prompted, update firmware and the app from within Suite and approve on the device. Avoid random download links.
Passphrase (Optional)
Advanced users can add a passphrase that creates a hidden wallet. Choose carefully: losing a passphrase means losing access.
Connectivity Fixes
Try a direct USB port, different cable, or another computer profile. Close other wallet apps that might compete for access.
Myths vs. Reality
Clear up common misconceptions so you can help others stay safe, too.
“I can just screenshot my seed.”
Screenshots end up in cloud backups and photo libraries that sync across devices. The seed must remain offline. Use paper or a metal backup only.
“Exchanges are safer than self‑custody.”
Exchanges are large targets and can freeze withdrawals during incidents. With self‑custody, you’re not asking for access — you have it.
“If I forget my PIN, I’m doomed.”
Your seed is the master key. With it, you can restore funds on a new device even if the original PIN is lost.
“All wallet apps are the same.”
Only install from Trézor.io/Start. Look‑alike apps can steal funds by tricking you into entering your seed.
Mini Glossary
Five quick definitions that make everything click.
Private Key
A secret number that proves you own your funds. Trézor stores this offline so it never touches the internet.
Seed Phrase
A 12–24 word list that can regenerate your private keys on a new device. Guard it like a master key.
Address
Where others send you crypto. It’s safe to share, but always verify on-device before receiving large amounts.
Passphrase
An optional, extra word that adds a hidden wallet. Great for advanced users with clear backup discipline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Open each item to read concise, plain‑English answers.
Is Trézor.io/Start® the official setup page?
Use it to access authentic downloads and the recommended flow. Always type the URL yourself and double‑check the spelling before installing anything.
What happens if my device is lost or destroyed?
Your funds are recoverable with the seed phrase on a new device. That’s why keeping the seed offline and private is non‑negotiable.
Does Trézor support NFTs and multiple networks?
Yes. Within Suite, you can manage major coins, common ERC‑20 tokens, stablecoins, and view NFTs on supported networks.
Do I need to be technical to use it?
No. The onboarding is designed for first‑time users. Advanced features remain optional and are clearly explained when enabled.
How do firmware updates work safely?
When Suite prompts you, read the notes, then approve the update on‑device. This preserves the integrity of the update process.
Start Now — Secure What Matters
Initialize your wallet with the official flow, learn the basics, and build habits that last a lifetime.