Trézor.io/Start — Starting

Trezor is one of the pioneering hardware wallets in the cryptocurrency space, developed by SatoshiLabs since 2013. It provides offline storage for private keys, ensuring that your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other digital assets remain secure from online threats like hacking or malware. The official starting point for new users is trezor.io/start, a dedicated page on the genuine Trezor website that guides you through initializing your device. This page congratulates you on your purchase and directs you to download or use the Trezor Suite app, the official interface for managing your wallet. The setup process via trezor.io/start is designed to be user-friendly, taking approximately 15 minutes for most users. It's crucial to access this page directly from a trusted source to avoid phishing sites. The official Trezor domain is trezor.io—always verify the URL starts with "https://trezor.io/" and shows a valid SSL certificate. Note that variations like "Trézor.io" (with accents) or similar spellings are often used in scams to trick users. To begin, visit https://trezor.io/start. The page welcomes you with "Congrats on your new Trezor" and outlines simple steps: download the Trezor Suite desktop app (available for Windows, macOS, and Linux) or proceed with the web version in your browser. The desktop app is recommended for enhanced security and features. Once installed, launch Trezor Suite, connect your Trezor device via USB, and follow the on-screen prompts. The first critical step is firmware installation. For a brand-new Trezor (models like Model One, Model T, Safe 3, or Safe 5), the device ships without firmware for security reasons. Trezor Suite will detect this and guide you to install the official firmware directly from SatoshiLabs' servers. Always confirm the firmware signature on your device's screen to ensure it's genuine—never skip this verification. Next, you'll authenticate your device. Newer models like the Safe 3 and Safe 5 include advanced features such as Secure Element chips for added protection against physical attacks. The app will prompt you to learn basics, like touching the screen (on touchscreen models) or pressing buttons to confirm actions. The heart of Trezor security is creating a new wallet and backing it up. You'll generate a recovery seed—typically 12, 18, or 24 words (depending on the model and settings). This seed is your master backup; it allows recovery of your funds if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Write it down on the provided recovery card (included in the box) using a pen, and store it in a safe, offline location—preferably split across multiple secure spots. Never take photos, store it digitally, or share it with anyone. Trezor emphasizes: your seed must remain private forever. After backing up, you'll verify the seed by re-entering select words on the device itself (not on your computer), ensuring you recorded it correctly. This offline confirmation prevents malware from intercepting your backup. Then, set a PIN. This protects access to the device. You'll choose a 4-9 digit code (up to 50 on some models), entered via a randomized grid shown on your computer but inputted directly on the Trezor to avoid keyloggers. For touchscreen models, it's even more intuitive. Once set up, name your wallet for easy identification, and activate supported coins. Trezor supports over 1,000 cryptocurrencies natively, with more via third-party integrations. You can enable passphrase protection for advanced users—an optional "25th word" that creates hidden wallets. Post-setup, trezor.io/start links to guides for transferring assets from exchanges to your Trezor. Always send a small test amount first. Use Trezor Suite to receive addresses, confirming them on the device screen to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks. Security best practices are woven throughout the process. Trezor devices feature tamper-evident packaging—check holograms and seals upon unboxing. Buy only from the official shop at trezor.io or authorized resellers to avoid counterfeit devices. Common pitfalls include phishing sites mimicking trezor.io/start. Scammers create domains like trez0r.io or trezor-start.com, prompting users to enter seeds or connect fake devices. Trezor never asks for your seed via email, support chats, or apps. There are no official Trezor mobile apps for direct wallet management—avoid any claiming otherwise. Advanced features post-setup include Shamir Backup (splitting your seed into shares), passphrase wallets for plausible deniability, and integration with WalletConnect for DeFi. Trezor Suite also allows buying, selling, and swapping crypto via partners, all with on-device confirmations.