Welcome — quick framing
Congratulations — you’ve got a hardware wallet! This guide walks you through first-run steps, explains the security model, shows how to create and protect your recovery, and gives troubleshooting and maintenance tips. The goal is simple: get your Trezor device ready to sign transactions securely while minimizing mistakes that can lead to loss. We’ll also cover developer-facing notes and practical checklists for everyday use.
What this page covers
Step-by-step device startup, secure PIN & passphrase handling, recovery seed creation and storage, firmware and Suite usage, troubleshooting tips, and recommended ongoing practices so your crypto stays under your control.
Step 1 — Unboxing & verification
When you unbox your device, inspect tamper-evident seals and packaging. Genuine hardware wallets are shipped sealed; any visible tampering is a red flag. Before connecting, read the quick-start leaflet included and only use official download links or app stores when installing companion software. If anything seems off, contact support rather than proceeding.
Step 2 — Choose your host software
Trezor offers an official user experience via Trezor Suite (desktop or web). Suite manages firmware updates, transaction construction, and device settings. For developers or specific integrations you may use other client apps, but for most users Suite gives the smoothest and safest experience.
Step 3 — First connection and firmware checks
Connect the device via USB following the included guide. The device will display a welcome screen and prompt to confirm actions using its physical buttons. On first connection, Suite or the host app may request a firmware upgrade — only accept firmware updates that are offered through the official Suite or verified release channels. Do not install third-party firmware from untrusted sources.
Step 4 — Create a new wallet & PIN
When creating a new wallet, you will be asked to set a PIN. Choose a PIN that is long enough to be non-trivial but that you can reliably remember. The device enforces brute-force protection, usually by introducing delays and eventually wiping on repeated failures; this turns a stolen-device threat into a less likely risk but does not remove the importance of physical security.
PIN best practices
- Avoid simple sequences (e.g., 1234, 0000) or personally guessable numbers (birthdays, addresses).
- Consider a moderately long PIN (6+ digits) to add strength while remaining memorizable.
- Do not store the PIN together with your recovery seed.
Step 5 — Recovery seed (the crown jewel)
The recovery seed (mnemonic) is the single most critical artifact. On device creation you will be shown a 12-, 18-, or 24-word seed (most commonly 24 words for maximum safety). Write it down carefully on the included card or a high-quality backup medium. Confirm the words in the device when prompted. The seed is the only way to restore access to funds if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Recovery storage recommendations
- Store the seed offline in at least two geographically separated safe locations (e.g., home safe + safety deposit box).
- Use fireproof/waterproof metal backup plates for long-term durability if you can — paper degrades.
- Never photograph, email, or type your seed into a computer or cloud note.
- Consider splitting the seed across multiple secure fragments only if you understand Shamir or multi-party backup schemes; don’t invent ad-hoc splits that are error-prone.
Step 6 — Optional passphrase (advanced)
An optional passphrase (BIP39 passphrase) can augment your seed and create an additional secret "wallet extension." This is powerful but introduces risk: if you forget the passphrase, access is lost. Only use passphrases if you understand them and maintain secure backups. For most users, the seed + PIN model is sufficient.
Step 7 — Use, update, and maintain
Use Trezor Suite to manage accounts, send/receive transactions, and apply firmware updates. Keep both Suite and the device firmware up to date; official updates fix bugs and strengthen security. Always read release notes and only accept firmware when distributed through verified channels.
Troubleshooting — common issues
If the device isn’t detected: try a different USB cable or port; avoid USB hubs for first-run. If the host asks for drivers, use only official instructions. If the device doesn’t boot or shows firmware errors, consult official recovery instructions — do not attempt untrusted repairs.
Lost seed or forgotten passphrase
If you lose the seed or forget the passphrase, there is no vendor backdoor — your funds are inaccessible. That’s the power and peril of self-custody. Plan backups carefully before transferring significant funds.
Ongoing security habits
- Keep the device’s PIN secret; never enter it into a remote device or reveal it to anyone.
- Verify addresses on the hardware screen before approving transactions — host UI can be spoofed.
- Periodically test backups by restoring to a spare device to confirm they work (do this safely using small test funds or a testnet wallet if possible).
- Use separate devices/accounts for long-term cold storage vs. active spending to minimize exposure.
Developer & advanced user notes
Developers building integrations should require explicit on-device confirmations for any signing operation and avoid showing full sensitive metadata in the host UI. Use official libraries and reference daemons for transport — and design session models that prevent cross-tab or race conditions. For scripted or automated environments, consider multisig or enterprise-grade HSM setups rather than single-device automation.
FAQ — quick answers
Q: Can I restore my Trezor seed on any compatible device?
A: Yes — a standard recovery seed restored on any compatible BIP39-compliant device recovers the same keys (unless passphrase variations are used).
Q: Is the PIN stored on the device?
A: Yes — the device secures your PIN and uses it for local unlocking logic; never store the PIN with your seed.
Final checklist before funding
- Device boots and displays welcome screen.
- Firmware updated via official Suite (if prompted).
- PIN set and tested (do a dry unlock).
- Recovery seed written down in full and verified.
- At least one secure backup location chosen for your seed.
- Optional passphrase decision documented and safely backed up if used.
Closing — ownership & responsibility
With a hardware wallet you gain full custody and control — and the responsibilities that come with it. Treat your recovery seed like the keys to a safe deposit box: lose them and recovery is likely impossible; protect them and you control your assets. This guide helps you start smart — take your time during setup, follow the checklist, and keep security habits that will serve you for years.