Step-by-Step Guide to Trezor.io/Start
If you’ve just purchased a Trezor hardware wallet — congratulations on taking a big step toward securing your crypto assets! Whether you're using the Trezor Model One or Trezor Model T, setting it up properly is crucial for long-term security. The official setup process begins at Trezor.io/Start, which ensures you're following the safest, most up-to-date instructions.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do, step by step.
Step 1: Go to Trezor.io/Start
Open your browser and go to trezor.io/start. This page will automatically detect your device model and guide you to the correct installation and setup flow.
Make sure you’re visiting the official Trezor site and not a fake one. Check that the URL starts with https:// and ends with .io.
Step 2: Choose Your Device
On the start page, select your device model:
- Trezor Model One
- Trezor Model T
Click the image of your device to begin the guided setup.
Step 3: Install Trezor Suite
Once you’ve selected your device, the page will prompt you to download Trezor Suite, the official desktop application for managing your wallet.
- Click Download for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
- Once installed, open Trezor Suite and connect your device via USB.
Note: You may be prompted to install a background service called Trezor Bridge if you prefer using the web interface instead. Trezor Suite is generally recommended for its enhanced features and usability.
Step 4: Connect and Initialize Your Device
Plug your Trezor into your computer using the provided USB cable.
Trezor Suite will automatically detect your device and guide you through these steps:
1. Install Firmware
If your device is brand new, it will not have firmware installed. Trezor Suite will prompt you to install the latest official firmware.
Click “Install firmware” and follow the prompts on both your computer and the device screen.
2. Create New Wallet
Once the firmware is installed, you’ll be given two options:
- Create a new wallet (recommended for new users)
- Recover a wallet (for restoring an old one)
Select Create new wallet to begin setting up a secure environment from scratch.
Step 5: Backup Your Recovery Seed
This is the most important step in the entire process.
- Trezor will generate a 12 or 24-word recovery seed depending on your device.
- Write down the words in order using the recovery sheet provided in the box. Never take a photo or store them digitally.
- Confirm your seed phrase by following the verification prompts.
This seed is your ultimate backup. If your Trezor is lost, stolen, or damaged, this is the only way to recover your assets.
Pro tip: Store your recovery seed in a fireproof and waterproof place — or even engrave it on a metal backup sheet for extra protection.
Step 6: Set a Strong PIN
You’ll now set a PIN code that protects your Trezor from unauthorized physical access.
- Choose a 4-9 digit PIN.
- Confirm the PIN on your device.
Each incorrect attempt will increase the delay before the next try, helping prevent brute-force attacks.
Step 7: (Optional) Enable Passphrase Protection
For advanced security, you can enable passphrase protection — a custom word or sentence that acts as an additional "25th word" to your recovery seed.
This creates a separate hidden wallet. If someone steals your Trezor and recovery seed but doesn’t know your passphrase, they can’t access your real wallet.
Make sure you remember your passphrase. If you forget it, there’s no way to recover the wallet associated with it.
Step 8: Start Using Your Wallet
Now that your Trezor is fully set up, you’re ready to:
- Receive and send cryptocurrency
- View your account balances
- Create multiple wallet accounts
- Use Trezor Login for secure authentication
- Access third-party apps like exchanges or DeFi services
Explore the Trezor Suite interface to get familiar with wallet features, transaction histories, and security settings.
Bonus Tips for Long-Term Security
- Update firmware whenever prompted to stay protected from vulnerabilities.
- Never share your recovery seed with anyone — Trezor staff will never ask for it.
- Use Trezor Login instead of passwords for supported apps and websites.
- Enable 2FA for your email and crypto exchange accounts for added protection.
Conclusion
Setting up your Trezor wallet through Trezor.io/Start is a smooth and secure process when done carefully. Following each step ensures your crypto assets remain protected under your full control.
Once complete, you’ll have one of the most secure and trusted hardware wallets in the world — ready to help you take full ownership of your financial future.