Trézor.io/start (Official) | Set Up Your #1 Trézor Hardware Wallet

Setting up a new hardware wallet is a crucial step in building long-term digital-asset security. The onboarding process at trezor.io/start is designed to walk new users through the safest and most reliable way to initialize, back up, and protect their device. Whether you’re unboxing a hardware wallet for the first time or upgrading from another security solution, understanding each step helps ensure your crypto is safeguarded with industry-leading standards.

This guide explains how to use the official setup portal, what to expect during device initialization, how to create and store your recovery seed, and how to manage your digital assets with maximum security from day one.

1. What is trezor.io/start?

The trezor.io/start page is the official onboarding gateway for new device owners. It provides:

  • A secure link to download the companion software

  • Up-to-date setup instructions

  • Firmware installation and updates

  • Recovery seed creation guidance

  • Tutorials and knowledge-base access

Using the official start page ensures you avoid counterfeit software or malicious imitations.

2. Before You Begin: Verify Your Device and Packaging

Before plugging anything in, check that:

• The packaging is sealed

Authentic devices arrive in tamper-evident packaging. If seals are broken or inconsistent, contact support before using the product.

• The hologram sticker is intact

The hologram sticker should be unbroken and firmly attached.

• No pre-generated recovery seed is included

A brand-new hardware wallet never ships with a printed seed. You will generate this yourself during setup.

3. Step-by-Step: How to Set Up Your Hardware Wallet via trezor.io/start

Step 1 — Navigate to the Official Start Page

Open your browser and go to:

trezor.io/start

Always type the URL manually or use a trusted bookmark. Avoid sponsored ads, shortened links, or search-result imitations.

Step 2 — Download the Companion App

The start page will provide a secure download link to the companion application used for:

  • Device setup

  • Firmware installation

  • Account management

  • Sending and receiving assets

  • Portfolio tracking

Download the version appropriate for your platform:

  • Windows

  • macOS

  • Linux

You may also access a web version, but desktop software is recommended for maximum reliability.

Step 3 — Connect Your Device

Use the cable supplied in the box:

  1. Plug your device into your computer

  2. Launch the companion app

  3. Allow the app to recognize the hardware

If this is your first time using the wallet, you may be prompted to install or update firmware.

Step 4 — Install or Upgrade Firmware

During initial activation, devices require official firmware to function.

The app will:

  • Check current firmware status

  • Download the newest, authenticated firmware

  • Prompt you to confirm installation

Important:
Only install firmware from the official app. Never accept firmware files from third parties.

Step 5 — Create a New Wallet

After firmware installation, select:

Create New Wallet

This process generates:

  • A new master private key

  • A recovery seed unique to your device

The device screen will walk you through each step.

Step 6 — Generate and Back Up Your Recovery Seed

Your device will display a 12-word, 18-word, or 24-word recovery seed. This is the most critical part of the setup.

You must:

  • Write each word down in the correct order

  • Store it offline and privately

  • Never save it in cloud storage

  • Never photograph or screenshot it

  • Never type it into websites, apps, or chat services

Your recovery seed is the only way to restore access if your device is lost, destroyed, or replaced.

Step 7 — Confirm Your Seed

The device will ask you to confirm your written words to ensure your backup is accurate.

This step protects against copying errors, which could otherwise lead to permanent loss of funds.

Step 8 — Set a PIN

Next, you’ll set a secure PIN used to unlock the hardware wallet.

Tips for a strong PIN:

  • Avoid patterns

  • Avoid repetition

  • Use the maximum length allowed

  • Keep it memorized—do not store it digitally

The PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access.

Step 9 — Access Your Wallet Dashboard

Once setup is complete, the companion app will display your wallet dashboard:

  • Account list

  • Portfolio overview

  • Supported cryptocurrencies

  • Transaction history

  • Tools and settings

From here, you can begin receiving and managing your assets.

4. Receiving Your First Crypto Assets

To receive crypto:

  1. Open the app

  2. Select the asset you want

  3. Click Receive

  4. Display your address on both the app and device

  5. Verify the address matches exactly

  6. Share the verified address with the sender

Verifying addresses on the device screen prevents man-in-the-middle attacks or malicious clipboard software.

5. Sending Crypto Securely

When sending:

  • Enter the recipient address

  • Choose the amount

  • Review network fees

  • Confirm the transaction

The device will display transaction details for verification. Press the physical confirmation button to approve.

This protects against malware attempting unauthorized transfers.

6. Advanced Security Features You Can Enable

• Passphrase

Adds an optional 25th word to your recovery seed. Each passphrase creates a completely new “hidden” wallet.

• Shamir Backup (on supported models)

Allows you to split your recovery seed into multiple shares for distributed storage.

• Multi-account structure

Create separate accounts for personal use, business, or long-term storage.

• Coin control

Manually manage UTXOs for privacy-focused transactions.

7. Why Hardware Wallet Setup Matters

Using trezor.io/start ensures a safe initialization process that prevents:

  • Pre-configured seeds

  • Counterfeit software

  • Man-in-the-middle attacks

  • Fake firmware installations

A properly set-up hardware wallet provides:

• Cold-storage protection

Private keys are generated and stored offline.

• Physical button confirmation

Makes remote attacks virtually impossible.

• Open-source transparency

The codebase can be reviewed by the security community.

• Long-term recoverability

Seed backups are universal across compatible wallets.

8. Troubleshooting Tips During Setup

• Device not recognized

Try another USB port or cable. Check that the desktop app is installed correctly.

• Firmware installation loop

Reboot the device and reconnect. Ensure you are using an official cable.

• Seed words don’t match

Restart seed generation. Never guess missing words—restart the wallet creation process.

• Wrong PIN entered too many times

Devices implement lockout timers. Avoid repeated attempts until the timer resets.

9. Protecting Your Wallet After Setup

After completing setup at trezor.io/start, follow these long-term security habits:

Store Your Recovery Seed Safely

Use:

  • Metal backups

  • Fireproof storage

  • Multiple secured locations

Keep Software Updated

Regular updates add new features and security patches.

Stay Alert for Phishing

Avoid:

  • Fake support chats

  • Imitation apps

  • Suspicious email links

The hardware wallet will never ask you to enter your seed anywhere except on the device during recovery.

10. Final Thoughts: Your Journey Begins at trezor.io/start

The official setup process at trezor.io/start is the most secure way to initialize and manage your hardware wallet. By following these steps—verifying your device, generating and storing your recovery seed, setting a strong PIN, and using the companion app—you create a powerful security foundation that puts you in full control of your digital assets.

Create a free website with Framer, the website builder loved by startups, designers and agencies.