Download the Trezor Suite app and follow the steps to get started.
Your private keys never leave the device. Hardware isolation protects against malware and phishing attacks.
Keep your crypto offline and safe from hackers. Cold storage is the gold standard for digital asset security.
Manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of cryptocurrencies in one secure device.
Download Trezor Suite app for desktop for the best experience, or click "Continue in browser" to open the web app.
Install the desktop app on your computer. This step isn't necessary for web app users.
Plug in your device and follow the steps to set up your Trezor hardware wallet securely.
You're ready to protect your crypto securely. Check our guide to learn how to transfer your assets from an exchange or wallet.
Welcome to the official Trezor setup guide. If you've just purchased a Trezor hardware wallet, you're taking a crucial step toward securing your cryptocurrency investments. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about setting up your device, understanding cold storage principles, and maintaining the highest level of security for your digital assets.
A hardware wallet is a physical device designed specifically to store cryptocurrency private keys offline. Unlike software wallets that exist on your computer or smartphone, hardware wallets keep your keys isolated from internet-connected devices, dramatically reducing the risk of theft. This concept is known as "cold storage" – keeping your crypto assets in an environment that hackers cannot access remotely.
Trezor pioneered this technology in 2014, becoming the world's first Bitcoin hardware wallet. Today, Trezor devices support thousands of cryptocurrencies and tokens, providing a secure vault for your entire digital portfolio. The fundamental principle remains unchanged: your private keys are generated on the device, stored on the device, and never leave the device – even when you're making transactions.
In the cryptocurrency world, possession of private keys equals ownership. If someone gains access to your private keys, they can steal your funds permanently – there's no bank to reverse the transaction or reimburse you. This makes security paramount. Exchange hacks have resulted in billions of dollars in losses over the years, and even software wallets on your computer can be compromised by malware.
Cold storage eliminates these risks by keeping your keys completely offline. When you need to make a transaction, your Trezor device signs it internally and only transmits the signed transaction to the network. Your private keys never touch the internet-connected computer, even for a moment. This air-gapped approach provides security that software solutions simply cannot match.
Beginning your Trezor journey is straightforward. First, visit Trezor.io/start to download the official Trezor Suite application. This is your command center for managing your device and cryptocurrencies. Never download Trezor software from unofficial sources, as malicious versions could compromise your security. Always verify you're on the legitimate Trezor website.
Once you've installed Trezor Suite, connect your new Trezor device to your computer using the provided USB cable. The setup wizard will guide you through creating a new wallet. During this process, your device will generate a recovery seed – a list of 12 or 24 words that serves as a backup of your entire wallet. Write these words down on the recovery card provided, in the exact order shown. Never photograph them, type them into a computer, or store them digitally in any way.
Your recovery seed is the master key to your cryptocurrency. Anyone who possesses it can access your funds, even without your physical device. Store it in a secure location, such as a fireproof safe. Consider using a metal backup plate for even greater durability against fire and water damage. Never share your recovery seed with anyone – legitimate Trezor support will never ask for it.
Set a strong PIN on your device to protect against physical theft. Trezor devices feature anti-tampering measures, but a robust PIN adds an essential layer of defense. You can also enable a passphrase for advanced security, creating a "hidden wallet" that's invisible to anyone who might coerce you to unlock your device. Additionally, always verify the firmware on your Trezor device and keep it updated through official channels.
By following these fundamental principles – maintaining cold storage, securing your recovery seed, and implementing strong device protection – you'll enjoy peace of mind knowing your cryptocurrency is protected by military-grade security. Trezor's commitment to open-source development and transparent security practices ensures that you're using a device trusted by millions worldwide to safeguard their digital wealth.