1. Unboxing & first checks
When you receive your Trezor® device, inspect the packaging and tamper-evident seals. Purchase only from trusted vendors or the official store. Make sure the packaging is intact, and check any included authenticity cards or holograms as described in the vendor’s documentation. If anything appears tampered with, contact official support and do not power up the device.
Power the device and follow the on-screen prompts. Trezor devices display initial instructions directly on their screen — this is a critical anti-phishing measure because your device will display exact prompts for verification. Never accept firmware or prompts that you did not expect. Trezor Suite® — Starting Up Your Device
2. Firmware checks & installation
Always verify firmware before use. Trezor Suite® will typically prompt you to install the latest signed firmware. Firmware images are cryptographically signed by the vendor; verifying signatures and device attestation prevents malicious or tampered firmware from running. Use the official Suite download page to avoid phishing sites — the Suite generally checks firmware signatures automatically.
If prompted to update firmware, follow the Suite’s instructions precisely: back up any existing device information (if applicable), run the update, and confirm the device screen’s fingerprint or verification message. After updating, verify the device functions and that the device’s unique identifier matches any records you keep. Trezor Suite® — Starting Up Your Device
3. Setting up your device with Trezor Suite®
Connect the device to your computer and open Trezor Suite®. Select the option to create a new wallet or recover an existing one. For new wallets choose “Create new” — the device will generate a recovery seed (list of words) on-device. Never generate a recovery seed on a connected computer or phone. Write the seed down exactly as displayed in the order shown. If your model supports a metal plate for seed storage, consider transferring your seed to a durable, fire-resistant medium.
During setup you will set a device PIN. The PIN is requested each time the device is used and acts as the first line of defense against device theft. Choose a PIN you can remember but that is not simple or guessable. The device will also offer an optional passphrase feature — this acts as an additional secret that creates hidden wallets. Be cautious: losing the passphrase means losing access to the hidden wallet. Trezor Suite® — Starting Up Your Device
4. Recovery seed handling
Your recovery seed is the single most important piece of information. Store it offline and physically separated from the device. Avoid screenshots, cloud storage, or photos. For long-term durability, consider metal seed storage solutions that resist fire, water, and corrosion. If you choose to split the seed into shares for redundancy, use proven cryptographic splitting tools and store shares in secure, geographically separated locations.
When testing restores, use a spare device or a testnet passphrase flow. Always follow the official restore procedures documented on the vendor’s start pages. Treat anyone asking for your recovery seed (including “support” personnel) as malicious — no legitimate support will ever need your seed. Trezor Suite® — Starting Up Your Device
5. First transactions & testing
Before sending large amounts, perform a small test transaction. This verifies that your sending flow and addresses are correct. In Trezor Suite®, add an account for the blockchain you wish to use, obtain a receiving address, and send a small amount from an exchange or a different wallet. Confirm the address on the device screen before signing; the device may display a truncated address digest and you should cross-check the recipient details carefully.
Trezor Suite® also supports integration with third-party services for purchases or swaps — review their fees and privacy notices before use, and prefer non-custodial/partner-assisted options when you want to keep full control of keys. Trezor Suite® — Starting Up Your Device
6. Downloads & official sources
Only download Trezor Suite® from official sources. Links such as the vendor's main site and official start documentation are safer than third-party mirrors. Bookmark the official start page and verify HTTPS and domain spelling. If you ever doubt an installer, verify signatures or checksums as published by the official vendor.
Keep your Suite application updated — updates include usability improvements and security patches. When updating software, review update notes and verify update sources on the vendor’s site or trusted community channels. Trezor Suite® — Starting Up Your Device
7. Best practices & advanced tips
Use these habits: keep firmware and Suite apps up to date, do not enter your recovery seed into any online form, use strong PINs and consider passphrases for hidden wallets, use metal backups for long-term storage, and minimize the number of devices and computers that interact with your wallet. Document your recovery process and keep instructions with your seed for trusted heirs, but never include the seed itself.
For frequent traders consider a dual-layer approach: keep a small hot balance for trading and the majority in your hardware-backed cold storage. If you manage significant assets, consider multi-signature setups or professional custody consultations as complements to hardware wallets. Trezor Suite® — Starting Up Your Device
Conclusion
Starting up a Trezor® device properly is about discipline: verify hardware authenticity, install signed firmware, generate and protect your recovery seed on-device, confirm addresses on-screen, and always prefer official downloads. Trezor Suite® provides guided flows to make these steps accessible, but responsibility for seed security and safe practices always remains with you.
If anything about your device or setup looks suspicious, stop and consult official vendor documentation or community support channels (but never share your seed). With mindful setup and ongoing safety practices, a hardware wallet provides strong protection for your private keys and crypto holdings. Trezor Suite® — Starting Up Your Device
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. Do I need Trezor Suite® to use my Trezor® device?
- No — the Suite is the recommended companion app to simplify setup and management. Some advanced users interact directly with low-level tools, but Suite offers verified flows, firmware checks, and UX-guided initialization that reduce user error.
- 2. Where should I store my recovery seed?
- Store it offline in a secure physical medium. Avoid digital photos, cloud storage, or notes on connected devices. Consider metal backup plates for durability and geographically separate backups if needed.
- 3. Can firmware updates brick my device?
- Official firmware updates are signed and safe when performed through the official Suite or documented procedures. Always follow instructions and never use firmware from untrusted sources. If unsure, consult official documentation before proceeding.
- 4. What is a passphrase and should I use it?
- A passphrase is an optional extra secret that creates an additional hidden wallet — it increases security but also increases responsibility. If you choose to use a passphrase, store it securely; losing it may make funds inaccessible.
- 5. Who should I contact if I suspect tampering?
- Contact official vendor support via the vendor’s website, and report suspicious packaging, unexpected prompts, or unknown firmware. Do not share your recovery seed with support or anyone else.