Overview

Trezór hardware wallets keep your private keys offline and give you sovereign control of your crypto. Starting your device correctly is the most important step toward secure custody. This guide assumes you have a genuine Trezór device in its sealed packaging and a trusted computer or mobile device for the companion app (Trezór Suite).

Unboxing & initial checks

When you first unbox your Trezór, take a moment to verify packaging integrity. Look for factory seals and compare the included accessories against the official packing list. If anything looks tampered with, contact the vendor or Trezór support immediately and do not proceed.

Trezór box and contents (illustration)
Keep the recovery card or metal plate that ships with the device — it’s designed to help you record your seed safely.

Download the official software

Open your browser and go to trezor.io/start. Download Trezór Suite for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or use the official mobile app where supported. Always type the URL manually or use a bookmark — avoid links in unsolicited emails.

Verify the site domain and the app’s publisher before installing. If you know how, check digital signatures or checksums for added assurance.

First connection & firmware

Connect your Trezór to your computer using the supplied cable. On first connection, Trezór Suite will typically prompt you to install firmware. This step is essential — firmware contains security updates and functionality improvements. Follow the on-screen prompts and verify any confirmation messages on the device itself.

Never install firmware from sources other than the official Trezór Suite. Interrupting an update (e.g., unplugging the device) can cause issues—follow instructions carefully.

Generating and protecting your recovery seed

During setup your device will generate a recovery seed (the canonical backup of your private keys). Trezór can produce 12, 18 or 24 words depending on model and options. The seed must be recorded exactly — it is the sole way to restore funds on a new device.

  1. Write the words down on the recovery card included in the box or on a secure metal backup plate.
  2. Keep the seed offline — never photograph, type, or upload it to cloud storage or email.
  3. Consider splitting the seed into geographically separated safes if you hold large sums (shamir backup or multiple device strategies are alternatives for advanced users).

Once recorded, Trezór Suite typically asks you to confirm a subset of words to ensure accuracy — complete that check before moving on.

PIN and optional passphrase

Next you’ll set a PIN. This protects the device from unauthorized physical use. Trezór’s interface is designed to make PIN guessing impractical by introducing delays and randomized entry.

Advanced users may enable a passphrase (also called 25th word). A passphrase creates hidden wallets derived from the same seed — powerful for privacy and segmentation but unforgiving if forgotten. If you use a passphrase, record it securely (not on the device) and treat it as part of your backup strategy.

Adding accounts & day-to-day usage

With security configured, add cryptocurrency accounts inside Trezór Suite. Each account corresponds to a chain (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). To receive funds, generate a receive address in the Suite and always verify the address on your device screen before sharing it — this protects against malware altering addresses on your computer.

To send, initiate the transaction in the Suite and confirm details (amount, fee, destination) on the Trezór screen. The hardware device signs transactions locally so your private keys remain offline.

Connecting to wallets & dapps

Trezór integrates with popular wallets and DApp interfaces (e.g., MetaMask, Electrum). When connecting, the external app will request signatures — you must confirm each action on the device. Treat any unexpected approval request as suspicious and deny it until you investigate.

Troubleshooting common issues

  • Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable/port, restart your computer, and ensure Trezór Suite/Bridge is running.
  • Firmware error: Reconnect in bootloader mode and retry update via Suite.
  • Forgotten PIN: You must reset the device and restore it using your recovery seed; this is why the seed backup is critical.
  • Seed entry mistakes: If you mis-wrote your seed during setup, wipe the device and reinitialize after confirming you have a correct backup.

If problems persist, consult official documentation or contact Trezór support — never share your seed or full PIN when seeking help.

Security best practices — checklist

  • Always download Suite from trezor.io/start.
  • Record your seed offline and keep at least one secure, geographically separated backup.
  • Use a strong PIN and consider a passphrase only if you understand recovery implications.
  • Verify addresses and transaction details on-device — never trust only the computer screen.
  • Keep firmware and Suite updated; stay informed about security advisories.
  • Use an air-gapped routine for high-value operations if you require extreme assurance.

Final notes

Starting up your Trezór device correctly gives you both convenience and strong protection over your digital assets. The most critical elements are the offline recovery seed, device PIN, and the habit of verifying everything on the hardware display. Follow the steps above, invest time in secure backup practices, and use the device’s built-in confirmations — that combination preserves your control while minimizing risk.