Welcome to the most secure way to manage your crypto assets. The Trezor hardware wallet provides the ultimate protection against online threats. This guide details the essential steps for setup and long-term security.
Proceed to Trezor.io/StartUnbox your Trezor device and connect it to your computer using the provided USB cable. Navigate directly to `Trezor.io/Start` to download and install the official Trezor Suite application. This software is the secure interface you will use to manage all your cryptocurrencies. Always confirm you are on the legitimate Trezor website to avoid phishing attempts.
The Suite will guide you to install the latest firmware on your Trezor device—this is the internal operating system. Next, you must set a strong PIN directly on the device's screen. The PIN prevents unauthorized access if your physical Trezor is lost or stolen. **Never enter your PIN on your computer screen; only use the Trezor device itself.**
This is the **most crucial step**. Your Trezor will generate a 12, 18, or 24-word recovery seed. You must copy these words, in order, onto the provided recovery seed card. This seed is your ultimate backup—it can restore your entire wallet and all funds onto a new device if your original Trezor is damaged or lost. Keep this paper copy offline, safe, and hidden.
A hardware wallet is effective because your private keys—the cryptographic proof of ownership for your funds—**never leave the device**. All transaction signing occurs within the secure, isolated chip. Malware on your computer cannot access this information. When you initiate a transaction via Trezor Suite, the software prepares the transaction details, but the final, signed approval must happen on the Trezor device itself, requiring a physical confirmation. This deliberate isolation creates an air gap between your sensitive keys and the vulnerable internet environment.
It is paramount that your recovery seed is treated like physical cash. It must be stored in a location impervious to fire, flood, and theft. **Never digitize it**—do not take a picture, store it on a cloud service, or type it into your computer. Anyone who possesses your seed owns your crypto. Furthermore, be wary of "social engineering" attacks; Trezor will never ask you to input your seed online or share it with support. Your security is entirely dependent on keeping these 12-24 words secret and safe.
By completing the process at `Trezor.io/Start`, you are moving your assets from hot storage to cold storage, significantly enhancing your resilience against malicious actors. Take the time to understand the setup and commit to strong, offline storage of your recovery seed.