Getting started with a hardware wallet is one of the most important steps a cryptocurrency user can take to protect their digital assets. With online threats, phishing attacks, and exchange hacks becoming increasingly common, self-custody through a trusted hardware wallet offers unmatched security. Trezor.io/Start® is the official onboarding gateway designed to help users safely and correctly set up their Trezór® hardware wallet.

This guide explains what Trezor.io/Start is, why it matters, and how it ensures that your device is initialized securely from the very first step.

What Is Trezor.io/Start®?

Trezor.io/Start® is the official setup page provided by Trezor for initializing new hardware wallet devices. It serves as the starting point for users who have just purchased a Trezor device or need to reinitialize one.

The page guides users through:

• Verifying the authenticity of the device
• Installing official Trezor software
• Updating firmware
• Creating a new wallet or restoring an existing one
• Securing recovery seeds and device settings

By directing all new users to a single trusted location, Trezor minimizes the risk of counterfeit software, phishing websites, or malicious setup instructions.

Why Starting at Trezor.io/Start Matters

Using the correct setup process is just as important as owning a hardware wallet itself. Many security breaches occur not because of device flaws, but due to improper initialization or exposure to fake websites.

Protection Against Phishing

Trezor.io/Start ensures users download only official software and firmware, avoiding fake wallet apps designed to steal recovery phrases.

Device Authenticity Verification

During setup, users are guided to confirm that their device has not been tampered with and that the firmware is genuine.

Secure Key Generation

Wallet keys are generated directly on the Trezor device during setup—not online—ensuring they remain offline and private.

Supported Trezor Devices

Trezor.io/Start supports all official Trezor hardware wallets, including:

• Trezor Model One
• Trezor Model T

Each device follows a similar setup process, with minor differences in screen interaction and confirmation methods.

Step-by-Step Overview: Starting Up Your Trezór®

1. Connect Your Device

To begin, connect your Trezor device to your computer using the provided USB cable. The device will power on automatically and display instructions guiding you to visit Trezor.io/Start.

This step ensures that users are funneled to the official onboarding environment.

2. Install Official Trezor Software

From Trezor.io/Start, users are guided to install Trezor Suite, which is available as:

• A desktop application (recommended for maximum security)
• A web-based interface (for convenience and flexibility)

Trezor Suite acts as the main interface for managing cryptocurrencies, updating firmware, and interacting with the device.

3. Firmware Check and Installation

If the device is new or has no firmware installed, Trezor Suite will prompt users to install the latest official firmware.

Important security notes:

• Official Trezor devices are shipped without preinstalled firmware
• Firmware must always be installed by the user
• The device screen will ask for confirmation before installation

This process ensures that no third party has accessed or modified the device before you.

4. Create a New Wallet or Restore One

Once firmware is installed, users can choose between two options:

Create a New Wallet

This option generates a brand-new wallet with fresh private keys created securely on the device.

Restore an Existing Wallet

Users who already have a recovery seed can restore access to their funds by entering the seed directly on the Trezor device.

At no point is the recovery phrase entered into a computer or browser, maintaining maximum security.

Recovery Seed: The Most Important Step

One of the most critical parts of the setup process at Trezor.io/Start is generating and securing the recovery seed.

What Is a Recovery Seed?

The recovery seed is a sequence of words (usually 12 or 24) that acts as the master backup of your wallet. Anyone with this seed can access your funds.

Best Practices for Recovery Seed Security

• Write the words down on paper
• Never take photos or screenshots
• Never store the seed digitally
• Keep it offline and private
• Store it in a secure physical location

Trezor will ask users to confirm parts of the recovery seed to ensure it was written down correctly.

Setting Up PIN and Optional Passphrase

PIN Protection

During setup, users create a PIN code that protects the device from unauthorized physical access. The PIN layout changes every time it is entered, preventing keylogging attacks.

Passphrase (Advanced Option)

For enhanced security, users can enable a passphrase. This creates a hidden wallet that adds an extra word to the recovery seed.

Benefits of a passphrase:

• Protects funds even if recovery seed is exposed
• Allows creation of multiple hidden wallets
• Adds an extra layer against coercion or theft

Completing Setup and First Use

After completing setup through Trezor.io/Start, users can begin using their wallet immediately.

Common first actions include:

• Receiving cryptocurrency
• Viewing wallet addresses
• Sending test transactions
• Exploring supported assets
• Enabling privacy features such as Tor

Every transaction must be confirmed on the Trezor device itself, ensuring user awareness and control.

Ongoing Security After Setup

Starting at Trezor.io/Start is only the beginning of responsible wallet management. Users should continue following best practices:

• Keep Trezor Suite updated
• Verify transaction details on the device screen
• Never share recovery phrases
• Be cautious of emails or websites asking for wallet information
• Disconnect the device when not in use

Trezor never asks for recovery seeds online or via support messages.

Trezor.io/Start in the Self-Custody Ecosystem

Trezor.io/Start reflects Trezor’s broader philosophy: empowering users with full control over their assets without relying on centralized intermediaries. By guiding users through a transparent and secure setup process, it reinforces the principles of decentralization and personal responsibility.

As the crypto ecosystem grows and becomes more complex, having a secure foundation is essential. Trezor.io/Start ensures that foundation is built correctly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

New users should be aware of common pitfalls:

• Using unofficial setup websites
• Entering recovery seeds on a computer
• Skipping firmware verification
• Storing recovery phrases digitally
• Ignoring device confirmation screens

Trezor.io/Start helps prevent these mistakes by design.

Conclusion

Trezor.io/Start® is the official and safest way to begin your journey with a Trezór® hardware wallet. From verifying device authenticity to generating secure recovery seeds, the onboarding process is carefully designed to protect users at every stage.

By following the guided steps and adhering to best practices, users can confidently take full ownership of their cryptocurrency assets. In a world where digital security is increasingly important, starting correctly makes all the difference—and Trezor.io/Start ensures you do exactly that.