What this session covers
This presentation helps you start a Trezor hardware wallet: unboxing, connecting at trezor.io/start, creating a seed, and best practices for security and backup.
Why it matters: owning your private keys keeps your crypto custody with you. This walkthrough balances safety and simplicity.
H2: Items to check
H3: Box contents
- Device (Trezor model)
- USB cable
- Recovery card or recovery instruction booklet
- Official stickers and documentation
H4: Visual inspection
Ensure the tamper-evident seal is intact and the device shows no physical damage.
H2: Use the official site
Always use the official setup page at trezor.io/start. Do not follow random links. The page guides you through firmware checks and supported apps.
H4: Connection tips
- Use a computer you trust and a direct USB connection (no hubs if possible).
- If prompted for firmware, verify the fingerprint / checksums on the official page.
H2: New device or recovered wallet?
Choose Create new wallet for a fresh seed. Choose Recover wallet only if you already have a recovery phrase you control.
H3: Generating the seed
- Device will display words or ask you to write a 12/24-word recovery phrase.
- Write words on the recovery card provided — do not copy to a digital file.
- Verify each word as prompted by the device.
H5: Pro tip
If you use a passphrase, treat it as an extra word — losing it effectively destroys access to funds. Consider using a passphrase only if you understand the implications.
H2: Secure storage options
- Primary: Paper backup in a fireproof safe
- Secondary: Steel backup (engraved) stored separately
- Never: photos, cloud storage, plain text files, email
H4: Redundancy & distribution
Consider splitting the backup via Shamir (if supported) or storing copies in geographically separate secure places.
H2: Device hygiene
H3: Keep firmware current
Install firmware updates only from official sources. Firmware updates patch security issues and improve performance.
H4: Protect the PIN
- Choose a PIN that you can remember but is not guessable.
- Never share your PIN or recovery phrase with anyone — Trezor staff will never ask for them.
H2: Supported networks & apps
Trezor works with many wallets and blockchains via the official Trezor Bridge or supported webapps. Select accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported coins as needed.
H4: Verifying addresses
When sending or receiving, always verify the address shown on the device screen, not only the computer screen.
H2: Common issues & quick fixes
- Device not recognized: try a different USB port or cable.
- Firmware mismatch: re-run trezor.io/start and follow instructions to update.
- Device frozen: disconnect, reconnect, and retry the official site.
H4: When to contact support
If you suspect tampering, stop and contact official Trezor support links on the official site. Do not reveal your recovery words or PIN when requesting help.
H2: Sending & receiving
For outgoing transactions, confirm amount and address on the physical device screen. For incoming, share only your receiving address — verify via device if you use advanced derivation paths.
H3: Periodic checks
- Test recovery periodically in a safe environment.
- Update firmware on a regular cadence advised by the vendor.
H2: Key takeaways
- Use the official start page: trezor.io/start.
- Write and protect your recovery phrase offline.
- Keep firmware updated and verify addresses on-device.
H4: Helpful links
Official setup: trezor.io/start — Opening in a new tab. Office export: office.com.