Welcome to the essential guide for setting up your Trezor Hardware Wallet. This process ensures the highest level of security for your digital assets. Follow these steps meticulously, as securing your recovery seed is the most critical action you will take. We'll guide you through verification, setup, backup, and best practices.
The very first step is verifying the integrity of your new device. Trezor is designed to be shipped in tamper-evident packaging. **Inspect the box thoroughly.** Look for any signs of tampering, tears, or suspicious resealing before opening. If the holographic seal is broken or there are any doubts, **do not proceed**; contact Trezor support immediately. Trust starts with the physical security of your package. Once verified, carefully unbox the device, connect the provided cable, and prepare your computer. Ensure you are using a trusted device that is free from malware. This initial check is your first line of defense against supply chain attacks.
Action Required: Verify all packaging seals are intact and authentic before connecting the device to your computer.
Connect your Trezor to your computer using the USB cable. Your device screen will likely display a padlock icon or a welcome message. Next, you must install the official Trezor firmware. **This step is mandatory for security.** The firmware is what allows your Trezor to operate and sign transactions securely. Always download and install the firmware only through the official Trezor Suite application or the verified web interface. The device will perform a cryptographic check to ensure the firmware is signed by SatoshiLabs (Trezor's creator). If this check fails, the device will warn you. Installing the latest official firmware is vital for security patches and new feature compatibility.
Action Required: Download Trezor Suite and follow the on-screen prompts to install the official firmware.
With the firmware installed, the next crucial step is creating your new wallet. You will be prompted to choose between **Create New Wallet** or **Recover Wallet**. For first-time setup, choose 'Create New Wallet'. Immediately after, you must set a **strong PIN**. This PIN is necessary to unlock the device every time you use it. The unique feature of Trezor is that you enter the PIN on the computer screen by looking at the random grid displayed on the Trezor screen. This protects against keyloggers. Choose a PIN that is 4 to 9 digits long and never write it down digitally. Memorize it and keep it secret.
Action Required: Create a unique PIN and remember it. You will need it every time you access your wallet.
Your 12, 18, or 24-word **Recovery Seed** (also known as a seed phrase or mnemonic phrase) is the master key to your entire wallet and all its assets. If your Trezor is lost, stolen, or destroyed, this seed is the ONLY way to regain access. You must treat it with extreme security. The seed will be displayed directly on the Trezor's screen—it is never shown on your computer screen, protecting it from network threats.
WARNING: Never Digitalize Your Seed
Do not take a picture, store it on a cloud, save it in a text file, or input it into any device other than a Trezor during a recovery operation. Use the provided recovery card and a pen. Write down the words clearly and sequentially. Double-check your writing immediately. Once secured, store the recovery card in a safe, fireproof, and private location, such as a safe deposit box or a personal safe at home. The security of your entire portfolio rests on the physical security of this single piece of paper. This step is the culmination of the setup process and its integrity cannot be overstated.
After writing down your seed, the device will usually ask you to verify a few words. This crucial verification step ensures you have written the words down correctly. Only after successful verification can you be certain your backup is sound. Do not skip this check.
You can now name your device for easy identification. Additionally, consider enabling the **Passphrase** feature. A passphrase adds a 25th word (chosen by you) to your seed, creating a completely unique and hidden wallet. While highly secure, if you forget this passphrase, your funds are permanently lost, even with the 24-word seed. Use this feature only if you fully understand the risks.
Your Trezor is now ready!