This official-style Trezor Start guide explains how to prepare, authenticate, and initialize your Trezor device with Trezor Suite so you can securely manage crypto assets.
Trezor Start is the official on-ramp for initializing a Trezor hardware wallet. Use Trezor Start to verify device authenticity, install or update firmware, install the Trezor Suite companion app, and follow a guided flow to create or recover a wallet backup. Follow official Trezor Start steps to reduce risk and keep control of your private keys.
Unbox your Trezor and ensure packaging is intact. Prepare a clean desktop or laptop, a USB cable (or adapter for Model T), and a private, offline place to write down your wallet backup. Never share your recovery words; Trezor Start emphasizes creating a local wallet backup and never entering your recovery anywhere online.
Visit the official Trezor Start page and connect your Trezor to your computer. The site and the Trezor Suite app guide you through an initial device check to confirm authenticity before any firmware or wallet actions take place. Always verify you are at the official domain before proceeding. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
If prompted, install the latest firmware through Trezor Suite. Firmware updates are signed and designed to be applied only when the device is connected and authenticated by the Suite app; do not attempt unofficial firmware methods. Keeping firmware current ensures security improvements and compatibility with new networks. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
During setup you will either create a new wallet backup (previously called a recovery seed) or recover an existing wallet. Write down the words on the provided backup cards and store them offline. Trezor Start and the Suite emphasize that backups remain offline and private — never type them into websites or share them with anyone.
Protect physical access to your device with a PIN. For advanced protection, consider using a passphrase (a secret word or phrase added to your backup). A passphrase is optional but provides an extra layer of security; treat it as part of your private keys and never store it next to your backup words.
After setup, Trezor Suite will show a confirmation and let you explore accounts. Verify that addresses displayed in Suite match those shown on your device screen for any subsequent transaction — this device-to-app verification prevents address tampering by compromised hosts.
Treat your Trezor device and its backup as highly sensitive assets. Keep backups offline, avoid cloud storage for recovery words, and confirm every transaction on the device screen. If you suspect tampering or a compromised host, stop and contact official Trezor support for guidance.