Trezor.io/Start® | Start Your Device Security | Trezor

1. Introduction — why device security matters

Digital assets are only as safe as the keys that control them. A hardware wallet separates private keys from online devices, drastically reducing exposure to malware, phishing, and theft. This short guide helps you start a Trezor device correctly, explains core protections, and links official documentation for deeper reading.

2. Goals of a correct setup

2.1 What you achieve by following the official flow

When you follow the official setup flow, you will: (a) ensure the device firmware is legitimate, (b) create and securely record a recovery seed, (c) set a device PIN to guard against local physical access, and (d) connect to the official Trezor Suite app for safe transaction signing.

2.1.1 Safety first

Use only official channels to download software and follow device prompts on the device’s screen. Trezor Suite is the official management app and offers a verified environment to manage coins and firmware. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

3. Walkthrough — step by step (high level)

3.1 Unboxing checks (H3)

Inspect packaging for tamper evidence and verify the device model matches your order. If anything looks suspicious, contact official support rather than proceeding. Trezor maintains troubleshooting and support documentation for device issues. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

3.2 Install firmware & Trezor Suite

The device typically ships without firmware; install the latest signed firmware during the initialization flow. Running the latest Trezor Suite ensures the companion app and firmware can validate each other. Always use official download links or the web flow at trezor.io/start. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

3.3 Create and protect your recovery seed

Write the seed on the provided card or a metal backup kit — do not store your seed digitally. Treat the seed as the single source of wallet recovery; anyone who holds your seed can control your assets.

3.4 Set a PIN and optional passphrase

A PIN protects against attackers who obtain physical possession; a passphrase adds an optional extra layer (a “25th word”) that creates a hidden wallet. Understand both before enabling a passphrase because a lost passphrase can permanently lock funds.

4. Core security concepts (H2)

4.1 Trusted Display (H3)

Trezor’s device screen presents transaction details and confirmations locally — never rely solely on a computer screen. This ensures malware on a connected computer cannot trick you into approving altered transactions. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

4.2 Secure Element & physical protections (H3)

Newer Trezor Safe devices include Secure Elements to protect secrets against physical attacks. The Secure Element enforces PIN attempts and can wipe secrets after repeated incorrect tries, protecting against brute force if the device is stolen. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

4.2.1 Open-source & community review (H4)

Trezor publishes much of its firmware and designs to allow public review — this transparency is a strong security hypothesis because it invites independent auditing and reporting of vulnerabilities.

5. Common mistakes & how to avoid them

5.1 Copy-paste of seeds or storing seeds on cloud

Never copy your seed to a digital file, photo, or cloud drive. Treat it as an offline secret.

5.2 Using unofficial sites or downloads

Only use trezor.io and the listed official links to download Suite, firmware, or read setup guidance. If in doubt, consult official support. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

5.3 Social engineering & phishing (H4)

Verify URLs, check browser certificates for official domains, and never give backup words, PINs, or passphrases to anyone claiming to be support.

6. Practical checklist (H2)

1. Buy from official store or trusted reseller (verify vendor).
2. Open box, check seals, and verify model.
3. Go to trezor.io/start and follow the guided flow. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
4. Install signed firmware via Trezor Suite or web instructions. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
5. Create and record your recovery seed on physical medium; store securely.
6. Set a device PIN and learn passphrase implications.
7. Practice sending a small amount first.
8. Keep Suite updated and review support/security advisories regularly. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

7. Advanced topics (H2)

7.1 Multi-signature, passphrase hidden wallets, and sharding

For high-value custody, consider multi-signature arrangements or splitting recovery material in geographically separated vaults. Use metal backups and tested recovery drills to ensure you can recover funds in different scenarios.

7.2 Audits, past issues, and transparency

Trezor documents past security issues and maintains a bug bounty to improve ecosystem safety. Reviewing published advisories and GitHub research provides confidence in how issues are handled. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

8. Resources — official links (10)

Use these official links for setup, support, learning, and buying:

9. Closing — a short checklist for first 15 minutes

9.1 Start

Plug in, go to trezor.io/start, follow prompts.

9.2 Finish

Record recovery seed physically, set PIN, run a test transaction, and bookmark the official support page for future reference. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}