The Gold Standard of Cold Storage
Welcome to the comprehensive guide for Trezor.io/start. In an era where digital asset security is paramount, understanding how to properly initialize and maintain your hardware wallet is the first step towards true financial sovereignty.
Why Hardware Wallets Matter
Cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets (hot wallets) are constantly connected to the internet, making them vulnerable to hacks, phishing attacks, and malware. A hardware wallet like Trezor isolates your private keys—the cryptographic proof of ownership—inside a physical device. This means your keys never leave the device, and transactions are signed offline.
By navigating to Trezor.io/start, you are initiating a process that builds a fortress around your digital wealth. Whether you own Bitcoin, Ethereum, or thousands of other supported altcoins, the principle remains the same: Not your keys, not your coins.
Uncompromising Security
Trezor devices are built on a zero-trust architecture. Even if your computer is compromised with malware, your funds remain safe because the private keys never leave the Trezor device.
Getting Started: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed walkthrough to set up your device via Trezor.io/start.
Unboxing & Inspection
Before you even visit Trezor.io/start, carefully inspect the packaging of your new device. Trezor devices come in tamper-evident packaging.
- Check for the holographic seal on the USB port (Trezor Model One) or the box (Trezor Model T/Safe 3).
- Ensure the box has not been opened or damaged.
- Verify contents: Device, USB cable, Recovery Seed cards, and stickers.
If the holographic seal is broken or looks tampered with, do not use the device. Contact Trezor support immediately.
Download Trezor Suite
The bridge between your computer and your Trezor device is the Trezor Suite application.
Connect & Install Firmware
Once Trezor Suite is installed, launch the application. Connect your Trezor device to your computer using the provided USB cable.
Create a New Wallet
After the firmware update, the device will reboot. You will now see the option to "Create New Wallet" or "Recover Wallet".
The Critical Step: Recovery Seed
This is the most important part of the Trezor.io/start process. Your device will generate a unique sequence of words known as the Recovery Seed.
- Write down every word exactly as it appears on the device screen onto the provided recovery seed cards.
- NEVER take a photo of your seed words.
- NEVER type your seed words into a computer or save them in a password manager.
- NEVER share your seed words with anyone, including Trezor support.
Finalize Setup
Finally, set a strong PIN code. This PIN protects your device from unauthorized physical access.
Beyond the Basics
Discover the powerful features unlocked by Trezor Suite.
Universal Support
Trezor supports over 1,000 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, XRP, and many more ERC-20 tokens. Manage them all from a single interface.
Exchange & Buy
Through Trezor Suite's Invity integration, you can buy, sell, and exchange cryptocurrencies directly within the app without compromising security.
Mobile Connectivity
Connect your Trezor to Android devices via WebUSB to manage your funds on the go. Perfect for travel or quick checks.
Passphrase Protection
For advanced users, the "Hidden Wallet" feature allows you to add a custom passphrase to your seed, creating a completely separate wallet invisible to anyone who finds your seed cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common queries about setting up and using your Trezor device.