Quick start — initialize your Trezor securely

What you need before you begin

• A genuine Trezor hardware device (Model One or Model T) and its original USB cable.
• A clean computer with an up-to-date browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox recommended).
• Paper and pen (or the official recovery card) to write down your recovery seed — never store it digitally.

Tip: Use a private, well-lit space and avoid public Wi‑Fi when performing the initial setup.

Step 1 — Verify the device and official packaging

Before connecting, inspect the packaging and the device for tamper-evidence or unusual markings. Trezor devices ship sealed. If anything looks suspicious, contact Trezor support and do not continue.

Step 2 — Connect and open Trezor Suite

Connect the Trezor to your computer using the supplied cable. Open Trezor Suite (the official desktop/web app) at the start page. Only use the official software from Trezor's website — check the URL and certificate before proceeding.

• If prompted, allow the browser to access the device.
• Choose Set up new device when asked.

Step 3 — Set a PIN

The device will prompt you to choose a PIN. This PIN protects the Trezor when connected and must be entered on the device screen — not on the computer. Pick a PIN you can remember but that isn’t easily guessable. The device may display randomized PIN positions on-screen for extra security.

Step 4 — Generate and store your recovery seed

Generating your recovery seed (also called recovery phrase) is the most critical step. The recovery seed is the master key to your wallets; anyone with it can control your funds. Trezor will generate a list of words (typically 12, 18, or 24 words depending on the model and options).

• Write the words down clearly, in order, on paper or the official recovery card. Do not take photos or save the seed to cloud storage, email, or a password manager.
• Store the written seed in a secure, fireproof, and waterproof location. Consider splitting it across multiple secure locations for redundancy.
• Perform the device's seed verification step when prompted to confirm you copied the seed correctly.

Never share your recovery seed with anyone or enter it into a website or app. Trezor will never ask for your seed through support channels.

Step 5 — Install/enable firmware and confirm authenticity

Trezor devices require firmware. The Suite will walk you through installing the latest official firmware. Only install updates delivered through Trezor Suite; do not install packages from third-party sources. After installation, the device will display a fingerprint or verification tokens to confirm authenticity — follow on-screen instructions carefully.

Step 6 — Add accounts and receive funds

Once setup is complete, add cryptocurrency accounts inside Trezor Suite or a supported third-party wallet. To receive funds, use the receiving address shown by your Trezor — verify the address on the device screen to ensure it matches the app.

Always verify an address on the device display, not just in the browser UI, to protect against malicious software on your computer.

Best practices for everyday safety

• Keep your recovery seed offline and never share it.
• Use a strong, unique PIN and enable passphrase protection for additional security (advanced users only).
• Keep your firmware and Trezor Suite up to date — updates often include security fixes.
• Be cautious of phishing sites: always verify domain names and never click links from unknown emails offering support or firmware downloads.