Trezor.io/Start — Official Onboarding & Security Guide

Cryptocurrency hardware wallets like Trezor provide users with a secure way to store private keys offline. The onboarding process sets up your device and teaches you how to protect your crypto assets against theft, loss, or compromise.

Below is a full walkthrough of what to expect when you start with a Trezor device — from unboxing to everyday use and best security practices.

  1. Understanding Hardware Wallet Basics

A hardware wallet stores your private keys securely offline. Your keys are never exposed to the internet, reducing the risk of hacking.

The device communicates with your computer or smartphone only during signing transactions, and it displays critical information so you can confirm operations yourself.

  1. What You Need Before You Begin

Before getting started, make sure you have:

A Trezor hardware wallet (Model One or Model T)

A USB cable (supplied with the device)

Access to a computer or mobile device

A secure place to write down the recovery seed

You’ll also want to be in a private environment — onboarding in public or on unsecured Wi-Fi isn’t recommended.

  1. First Power Up

When you first connect your Trezor:

Plug the device into your computer with the USB cable.

The screen will show a welcome prompt.

Go to trezor.io/start from your browser — the official site verifies you’re using the genuine interface.

The web page detects your device and loads the correct firmware if needed.

  1. Firmware Installation

If your Trezor does not already have firmware installed:

The official app will prompt you to install it.

Firmware is code that runs the device securely.

Always install firmware only through the official interface — never from an unknown source.

Once the firmware is installed, your device is ready for setup.

  1. Choosing a PIN Code

The next step is to create a PIN for your device:

The PIN protects access if someone physically obtains your Trezor.

On the screen and your computer, you’ll see a randomized keypad.

Your input is scrambled so attackers looking over your shoulder can’t guess your PIN.

Make sure your PIN is not easy to guess but also something you can remember.

  1. Generating the Recovery Seed

This is the most crucial step of all.

Trezor generates a recovery seed phrase — a list of 12, 18, or 24 words. This phrase:

Is the only way to restore your crypto if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Must be written down exactly as shown.

Must never be photographed, stored digitally, or shared online.

You will be asked to confirm your seed to ensure you wrote it correctly.

  1. Writing Down Your Seed Correctly

Write your words down on the included card or a secure alternative:

Write each word in order.

Use only a pen on paper (digital copies are risky).

Store this in two secure, separate locations if possible (safe, safety deposit box).

Trezor does not keep a copy of your seed.

  1. Wallet Setup in the App Interface

After confirming your seed and PIN, you’ll be guided to:

Install the Trezor Suite or connect via supported wallet software.

Create or import cryptocurrency accounts.

See your balances and transaction history.

Trezor Suite is the official dashboard for managing your cryptocurrencies.

  1. Receiving Cryptocurrency

To receive funds:

Select the asset you want to receive in the Trezor interface.

Click Receive.

Your Trezor displays a receiving address.

Confirm the address on the device — it must match what’s shown on your computer.

Never trust a receive address that isn’t verified on your Trezor screen.

  1. Sending Cryptocurrency

To send:

Enter the amount and destination address in the interface.

Your Trezor will show a summary on its screen.

Confirm the transaction only if the details are correct.

This physical confirmation step prevents remote tampering.

  1. Regular Security Practices

Keep your Trezor safe by:

Never connecting it to untrusted computers.

Avoiding suspicious browser extensions or software.

Keeping firmware up to date through the official app.

Never sharing your recovery seed.

For improved security, consider passphrase protection — an additional custom word that creates a hidden wallet.

  1. Passphrase Protection (Optional)

A passphrase adds a layer to your seed:

Think of it as a 25th word you choose.

This creates separate wallets for the same seed phrase.

Only you know the passphrase, and losing it means losing access to that particular wallet.

Use this option only if you understand how passphrases work.

  1. Backup & Recovery

If your Trezor is lost or damaged:

Buy a new Trezor or compatible hardware wallet.

On start-up, choose Restore wallet from seed.

Enter your seed, and optionally your passphrase.

This restores access to your funds on the new device.

  1. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Storing seed digitally

❌ Sharing your seed or PIN

❌ Entering your seed on any device other than the hardware wallet

❌ Trusting addresses not verified physically on the device

Following best practices drastically reduces risk.

  1. Advanced Tips

Enable optional security features only if you fully understand them.

Use Trezor with reputable crypto software (Trezor Suite or trusted third-party wallets).

Always confirm transaction details on the Trezor screen — not only on your PC.

Summary

Onboarding a Trezor securely involves:

Connecting and verifying the device

Installing official firmware

Setting a strong PIN

Backing up your recovery seed safely

Using the official interface to manage funds

Following regular security best practices

Keeping your seed offline and never sharing it ensures your crypto remains in your control.