Concise, practical steps to initialize your Trezor device, secure your recovery, and begin using your wallet with confidence.
Quick summary: A hardware wallet keeps your private keys offline. Set a PIN, record the recovery phrase offline, verify the device and firmware, and always confirm transaction details on the device screen before approving.
Hardware wallets are purpose-built devices that isolate private keys from your everyday computer and phone. When you sign a transaction, the private key never leaves the device — only the signature does. This separation dramatically reduces the risk of remote theft by malware, phishing, or compromised software.
Open the package in good light and check for tamper evidence. If seals look broken or packaging is suspicious, do not use the device — contact the vendor or official support. Only begin setup with the official instructions from the manufacturer.
Follow the on-screen prompts to create a device PIN. Choose a PIN that you can remember but is not trivially guessable. The device will also generate a recovery phrase — usually 12 to 24 words — which is the backup for your wallet. Write the words down in order on paper (or a metal backup designed for durability). Never store the recovery phrase in a photo, text file, or online storage.
Install the wallet's official software or open the official web setup and confirm firmware authenticity. Always verify update and setup prompts directly on the device screen — attackers may try to trick desktop software into showing fake prompts.
When sending funds, verify the recipient address and amount on the Trezor’s screen before approving. Malware can alter addresses displayed in desktop apps, but it cannot modify the device’s internal confirmation screen. For higher privacy, consider using a passphrase which creates an additional hidden wallet; remember that losing the passphrase makes recovery impossible even with the seed words.
Keep the recovery phrase in a secure, offline location. Consider storing copies in separate physical locations (for instance, a home safe and a safety deposit box) to protect against fire or theft. If you split backups, use established splitting schemes — ad-hoc splitting increases risk.
If something looks off during setup, stop and consult official support or documentation. Do not follow advice that asks for your recovery phrase. If you suspect compromise, move assets to a new wallet using a secure setup as soon as possible.