1. Before you begin
Start by ensuring a safe, private workspace. Keep your recovery card ready (paper or metal backup) and avoid recording the recovery phrase with any camera or online note service. The official start page at Trezor.io/start contains the latest software and step-by-step walkthroughs for both T and Model One devices.
2. Physical inspection
Check the packaging and the device for tamper-evident stickers. The device should have a holographic or heat-activated seal depending on the batch. If there is any sign of tampering, contact support via the official site before powering the device.
3. Software prerequisites
Use the recommended browser or download the Trezor Suite application. On some systems you may be prompted to install Trezor Bridge, a small helper that mediates USB communication. If your browser supports WebUSB, Bridge may not be necessary — the installer will prompt you.
4. Initial setup & firmware
Once you connect the device, the Suite guides you through firmware checks and updates. Stay patient during firmware flashes and never unplug mid-process. After firmware is verified, you'll be prompted to create or recover a wallet.
5. Creating a new wallet
Choose Create new to receive a randomly generated recovery phrase. Write it down in order, confirm a few words on the device as instructed, and store the phrase offline. Consider using a metal backup if you want fire and corrosion resistance.
6. Recovering an existing wallet
Choose Recover if you have an existing seed. Type it in only when you're certain you're in a secure environment. Trezor devices sometimes support different seed lengths and passphrase setups — match the exact configuration of the original device to regain access to funds.
7. Trezor Login & account management
After setup, you can use Trezor Login flows in the Suite for quick access to accounts. Trezor Suite aggregates accounts from multiple blockchains and presents balances, transaction history, and tools to manage coins and tokens securely. When signing transactions, the device displays the full details so you can verify amounts and destination addresses on the hardware screen before approving.
8. Best practices & maintenance
Regularly check for firmware updates, keep backups secure, and avoid sharing your seed. Use passphrase protection for additional layers of security — but remember a lost passphrase means lost funds. Treat your Trezor as the ultimate root of trust: it signs transactions while private keys never leave the device.
9. Troubleshooting common issues
If the device is not recognized, try these steps: reboot your machine, try a different USB cable or port, install or update Trezor Bridge, and verify that you're using the official Suite or start page at Trezor.io/start. For persistent issues, check official support for known device logs and steps.