Introduction
The Trezor hardware wallet is one of the most secure ways to store your cryptocurrency. Whether you're using the Trezor Model One or the advanced Trezor Model T, the setup process ensures your funds are safe from hackers, malware, and phishing attacks.
This guide walks you step-by-step through the entire setup process—from unboxing your Trezor to sending your first transaction. Let’s get started.
What You Need Before Setup
- Your new Trezor Model One or Model T
- A computer with an internet connection
- Google Chrome, Firefox, or Brave browser
- A USB cable (included with your Trezor)
- Pen and paper to write down your recovery seed
Step 1: Unbox Your Trezor
Carefully unbox your Trezor and make sure the packaging hasn’t been tampered with. Trezor hardware wallets come with anti-tamper seals. If anything looks suspicious, do not proceed—contact Trezor support.
In the box, you should find:
- The Trezor device
- USB cable
- Recovery seed cards
- Stickers & documentation
Step 2: Connect to Trezor Suite
Visit the official website at trezor.io/start. This will guide you to install the Trezor Suite, the official desktop and web app to manage your wallet.
- Download Trezor Suite for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
- Install and open the application
- Connect your Trezor device using the USB cable
Step 3: Install Firmware
If this is your first time using the Trezor, you’ll be prompted to install firmware. The device ships without firmware for security reasons.
- Click "Install Firmware"
- Wait for the process to complete
- Do not disconnect the device during installation
Step 4: Create a New Wallet
Once the firmware is installed, you’ll be given two options: "Create new wallet" or "Recover wallet".
- Choose "Create new wallet" to start fresh
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Your Trezor will display a recovery seed (12 to 24 words)
Important: Write down your recovery seed on paper (not digitally) and store it in a safe location. This is your only backup if your Trezor is lost, damaged, or stolen.
Step 5: Set PIN Protection
Next, you’ll be asked to set a PIN. This adds a second layer of security. You’ll need this PIN every time you connect your Trezor.
- The PIN is entered using a scrambled layout on your computer and device
- Choose a number that is hard to guess but easy to remember
Step 6: Add Accounts (Coins)
Now your wallet is ready! In Trezor Suite, you can start adding cryptocurrency accounts (such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
- Click “Accounts” in the left sidebar
- Select the cryptocurrency you want to add
- Click “Add Account”
Step 7: Receive Your First Crypto
To receive crypto into your Trezor wallet:
- Select the correct account (e.g. Bitcoin)
- Click “Receive”
- Your Trezor will confirm and display a receiving address
- Copy the address and use it to receive funds from another wallet or exchange
Always verify the address on your Trezor screen. This prevents malware from showing a fake address.
Step 8: Sending Crypto
Sending crypto is just as easy:
- Select the account and click “Send”
- Enter the recipient’s address and the amount
- Choose the network fee (Low, Medium, High)
- Confirm the transaction on your Trezor device
Security Best Practices
- Never share your recovery seed with anyone
- Always verify addresses on the device screen
- Store your seed phrase in multiple secure locations (not cloud storage)
- Use a passphrase for added security if needed
- Only download Trezor Suite from the official site
Advanced Options
After basic setup, you can explore additional features:
- Passphrase: Adds a custom word or sentence to your recovery seed
- Hidden Wallets: Access different wallets using different passphrases
- Coin Control: Choose specific UTXOs when sending Bitcoin
- Labeling: Add labels to transactions with Dropbox integration (optional)
Reset or Recover Your Wallet
If you lose access to your Trezor, you can recover your wallet on a new device using the recovery seed.
- Get a new Trezor device
- Choose “Recover Wallet” instead of “Create New”
- Enter your recovery seed using the device
- Access your