How do I set up a Trezor hardware wallet?

Unbox, connect to a trusted computer, install official companion software (like Trezor Suite or Bridge), create a device seed on the device, write down the recovery phrase, and choose a PIN.

What is the recovery phrase?

The recovery phrase is a human-readable backup of your private keys. Store it offline in secure places; never share it or store it in cloud services.

What if the device isn't detected?

Try a different USB cable or port, restart the host software, check for Bridge or firmware updates, and confirm the device shows its welcome screen.

Getting Started — Trezor Setup & Starter Guide (Independent)

Overview

Hardware wallets like Trezor isolate private keys on a physical device so they never touch your computer or phone. This guide shows how to safely set up a device, create and store a recovery phrase, connect via companion apps, and maintain good habits that reduce the risk of theft or user error.

Unbox & verify

Confirm tamper seals and the packaging. Ensure the device has not been pre-initialized and the serial matches the packaging. If in doubt, contact the seller.

Download companion software

Use the vendor's official site or app stores to download Trezor Suite or Trezor Bridge. Avoid third-party downloads. Check HTTPS and signatures where available.

Create device seed & PIN

Initialize a new device on the device screen itself: generate a seed (12 or 24 words), write the recovery phrase on physical media, and set a PIN for local device access.

Secure backup

Store recovery words offline in a safe place. Consider metal backups for durability. Never photograph or upload the phrase. Consider splitting backups across multiple secure locations if desired.

Verify and transact

Always verify receiving addresses and transaction details on the device screen before confirming. Keep firmware and companion software updated to their latest stable versions.

Security best practices

Treat your recovery phrase as the ultimate key to your funds. If someone obtains it, they can restore your wallet elsewhere. Use a dedicated device or clean machine for sensitive operations when possible. Beware of phishing sites and only approve expected actions on the device screen.

Bridge vs Suite — quick note

Trezor Bridge is a lightweight local helper that enables browser-based apps to talk to the hardware device. Trezor Suite is a fuller desktop application for device management. Use the official channels to get either, and update them regularly.

Troubleshooting

Device not detected: Try another USB cable/port, avoid hubs, restart your app and device.
Software prompts not appearing: Disable browser extensions that might block local connections or try a different browser.
Lost device: Use your recovery phrase on a compatible device to restore funds — but only on trusted hardware or official tools.

Everyday tips

Only connect when necessary. Keep the firmware up to date. Use small test transactions when sending to new addresses. Consider a passphrase only after you fully understand the extra backup complexity it introduces.

Quick reference

Do:
- Verify official downloads
- Confirm addresses on device screen
- Store recovery phrase offline

Don't:
- Share your recovery phrase
- Store seed photos in cloud
- Use untrusted computers for initial setup