How do I set up my new Trezor hardware wallet?

Unbox the device, connect it to your computer, follow the on-screen setup steps in Trezor Suite or compatible app, write down the recovery seed on the supplied card, and create a PIN. Keep the seed offline and secure.

What is the recovery seed and why is it important?

The recovery seed (12–24 words) is a human-readable backup of your wallet’s private keys. If the device is lost or damaged, the seed is the only way to restore funds. Never store it digitally or share it.

Can I use Trezor without Trezor Suite?

Yes. You can use third-party wallets and tools that support Trezor. However, the official Suite provides guided setup, firmware updates, and an integrated UX designed for safety.

How do I update device firmware safely?

Update firmware only from official sources through the Suite or verified instructions. Ensure your recovery seed is securely stored before updating. Verify update prompts on the device screen before accepting.

What should I do if my Trezor is not detected?

Check USB cable and port, install Trezor Bridge if needed, restart your browser, try another machine, and consult logs or the official troubleshooting guide. Avoid connecting to untrusted devices or public computers.

Getting Started with Your Hardware Wallet — Trezor Users Guide (Unofficial)

Step-by-step setup, safety-first instructions, Bridge & Suite integration tips, and developer notes to help Trezor users start securely.

Unofficial guide • Educational content

Welcome — start here

This guide helps you get started with a Trezor hardware wallet: from unboxing and initial setup to secure storage of your recovery seed, software integration with Trezor Suite and Trezor Bridge, and tips for safe long-term custody. The content is clear, practical, and written to be easy to follow for beginners and power users alike.

Quick checklist — before you begin

Buy from an authorized seller — avoid used or tampered devices.
Prepare a clean computer and a reliable USB cable.
Have paper and a pen to write down your recovery seed (do not store it digitally).
Use Trezor Suite or a verified client to perform the first-time setup and firmware updates.

Step-by-step setup

1. Unbox & Inspect

Check tamper-evident seals. Inspect the device for visible damage. Only proceed if packaging looks intact and genuine.

2. Connect & Open Suite

Connect the device to your computer and open Trezor Suite or your preferred compatible wallet. If your browser blocks direct device access, install Trezor Bridge as instructed by the wallet.

3. Initialize & Create PIN

Follow on-screen prompts to create a device PIN. PIN-protecting the device prevents local physical attacks if the device is stolen.

4. Write down your recovery seed

Write the recovery seed on paper or a metal backup. Never store the seed as a photo, cloud note, or on a connected device. This seed restores your wallet if the device is lost.

Software & integration notes

Use the official Suite for firmware updates, account management, swaps, and advanced features. If you are a developer or integrate Trezor into your application, prefer the latest SDKs, include fallback for Bridge, and test with simulators. Always validate addresses on the device screen before confirming transactions — never rely solely on the host UI.

// Example: verify address before sending (pseudo)
const address = await sdk.getAddress(account);
device.displayAddress(address);
if(confirm('Address ok on device?')) { sendTx(); }

Security best practices

Keep the recovery seed offline and in a duplicate, geographically separated backup.
Use a strong PIN and enable passphrase (optional advanced feature) only if you understand its trade-offs.
Verify firmware and software downloads from trusted sources; check checksums/signatures when available.
Do not enter your recovery seed into any online form — the seed is for recovery only.
Consider a metal backup for the seed to resist fire and water damage.

Troubleshooting

If your device isn’t detected, try a different USB cable or port, reboot the host machine, install Trezor Bridge for legacy browsers, and ensure browser permissions are granted. For firmware update failures, ensure the seed is backed up and follow official recovery steps carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I restore from a recovery seed?+

During device setup choose 'Recover wallet', enter the exact recovery words in order, and confirm. Always use the original device or a trusted recovery tool; test with small amounts first.

Is the recovery seed the same as my password?+

No. The recovery seed recreates your private keys. A password or passphrase can be an additional optional layer that modifies the derived key; understand passphrase risks before using it.

Can I update firmware offline?+

Firmware updates usually require connecting to the official Suite. Do not use unverified firmware; follow official instructions and confirm firmware fingerprints on the device when prompted.

What happens if I lose my device?+

If you have your recovery seed, you can restore your funds on a new device. If you lose both the device and the seed, funds are unrecoverable.

Should I use the passphrase feature?+

Passphrase provides plausible deniability and additional protection but increases complexity. Use it only if you fully understand how it affects recovery and backups.