Start with Trezor — A practical, secure setup guide

Why use a hardware wallet first?

A hardware wallet keeps your private keys off internet-connected devices. That isolation dramatically reduces attack surface compared with exchange custody or hot wallets.

Before you begin — have these ready

• Your new Trezor device (Model One, Model T, or Safe series).
• A computer you trust and an up-to-date browser — desktop app recommended for full features.
• A quiet space and 20–30 minutes of uninterrupted time.
• A secure place to write and store your recovery seed (metal recommended for long-term storage).

Step-by-step: get started (concise)

1. Download the official Trezor Suite or open the official web app. Prefer the desktop Suite for the richest experience; the web app is an alternative. Follow prompts to install or continue in browser.
2. Connect and install firmware. Plug your Trezor into USB. If firmware updates are required, allow them — firmware ensures your device has the latest protections.
3. Create and record your recovery. The device will generate a mnemonic (seed). Write the seed neatly on paper and — ideally — transfer to a metal backup plate for durability. Never store the seed digitally.
4. Set a PIN and passphrase (optional). Use a strong PIN you can remember. A passphrase adds an additional secret layer (treat it like a password — if lost, funds may be unrecoverable).
5. Confirm setup and transfer a small test transaction. Send a small amount from an exchange to your Trezor first to confirm everything works before moving larger balances.

This condensed setup mirrors the official instructions and recommended flow. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Security best practices (real-world)

• Never reveal your seed or PIN. Anyone with the seed can control funds. No legitimate service will ever ask for it.
• Buy hardware only from official channels. Avoid used or tampered devices. Initialize a new device in private — if a device arrives pre-initialized, return it.
• Consider a metal backup. Paper can degrade; metal resists fire, water, and time. Keep metal backups in physically secure locations (e.g., safe deposit box).
• Use a passphrase only if you understand it. A passphrase is powerful but unforgiving — losing it can mean permanent loss of funds.
• Keep firmware and Suite updated. Firmware updates fix vulnerabilities; update from official sources only.

Common questions

Do I need the desktop app?

No — the web app works — but the desktop Trezor Suite offers the best experience for managing multiple coins and performing firmware updates.

How long does setup take?

Plan 15–30 minutes: firmware, seed generation, PIN creation, and one small test transfer.

Can I recover my wallet without the physical device?

Yes — with your recovery seed you can restore your wallet to a compatible device or software that supports your seed type — but restoring to another device has different security properties.

Where should I store the recovery seed?

Offline and physically secure. Prefer metal storage plates and split backups only if you understand advanced vaulting methods (Shamir, multi–location splits, etc.).

Moving funds — a safe checklist

1. Send a small test amount first (e.g., $5–$10 equivalent).
2. Confirm on both the sending platform and Trezor that the address matches.
3. Wait for the required confirmations on the chain before marking the move complete.
4. After successful test transfer, move the remainder in one or several transactions based on fee optimization and privacy needs.

If you use multiple accounts or coin types, label them in Trezor Suite for easier future transfers.

Troubleshooting tips

• Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable/port and ensure you installed the desktop Suite if using the app. Reboot the computer if necessary.
• Firmware update fails: Retry on a secure, wired connection; avoid public Wi-Fi. If errors persist, consult official support channels.
• Lost seed: If you lose the seed and still have control of the device, create a new wallet and transfer funds. If you lose both, recovery is generally impossible.