Quickstart: the five essential steps
Open Trezor.io/start from a bookmark
Type the address by hand the first time, then bookmark it. Avoid links from ads or DMs—phishing sites are designed to look pixel-perfect.
Install Trezor Suite for your operating system
Download the installer for Windows, macOS, or Linux. Where provided, verify the file’s checksum or signature. Keep installers only from official pages.
Connect the device and set your PIN
Attach the hardware wallet over USB, then set a PIN on the device screen. Never type the PIN into your computer keyboard unless the device instructs a secure input method.
Back up your recovery phrase—offline only
Write each word clearly in order on the provided card or use a steel backup. Do not photograph, scan, or store it in cloud notes.
Verify addresses on-device before you receive or send
Display the address on your device and compare it with the one shown in Suite. For sending, review recipient, network, and amount on your device screen before confirming.
Install Trezor Suite (desktop & web)
Windows
Run the installer and follow SmartScreen prompts. If asked, confirm the verified publisher. After install, launch Suite from the Start menu.
macOS
Open the .dmg and drag the app into Applications. Approve security prompts on first launch. Updates are handled in-app when available.
Linux
Use AppImage or your distro’s package; add udev rules if prompted so Suite can communicate with the device. Restart Suite after rules are installed.
Connect & unlock your device
USB connection
Connect directly to your computer. If the device isn’t detected, try a different USB port/cable and avoid unpowered hubs. On macOS and Linux, approve any permission prompts.
PIN and firmware
Enter your PIN on the device screen. If Suite suggests a firmware update, read the notes carefully, then confirm on the device. After updating, perform a small test transaction.
Back up your recovery phrase the right way
Your recovery phrase is the master key to your wallet. If the device is lost or damaged, these words let you restore everything. If the phrase is exposed, your funds are at risk. Treat it like a set of keys that open every door.
Write clearly
Use the official card or a high-quality notebook. Write each word and index number. Avoid smudges and abbreviations.
Store offline
Keep the phrase off cameras and networks: no photos, no screenshots, no cloud backups. Consider a fire- and water-resistant steel backup.
Separate locations
Split risk across locations with trusted, trackable storage. Make sure a future you (or heirs) can find and identify the backup without guesswork.
Verify addresses on the device—every time
Receiving
Click “Receive” in Suite, then “Show full address.” Compare the string on your device screen with the one in the app. If anything differs, cancel and re-check.
Sending
When ready to send, inspect the recipient and amount on your device. Press the physical confirmation button only if everything matches your intent.
Everyday safety habits that compound
Habit | What to do | Why it matters |
---|---|---|
Use bookmarks | Access setup and Suite via saved bookmarks only | Reduces phishing risk from ads or typo-squats |
Label accounts | Separate “Savings” vs “Spending” and add notes | Prevents mistakes, simplifies tax season |
Discreet Mode | Hide balances during calls or screen sharing | Protects privacy and reduces social risk |
Selective coins | Enable only what you actually use | Less clutter and fewer metadata leaks |
Small test first | Send a tiny amount when using a new address or network | Cheap way to catch configuration mistakes |
Troubleshooting & peace-of-mind checks
Device not detected?
- Try a different cable/port; avoid hubs.
- Approve OS prompts; on Linux, install udev rules.
- Close/reopen Suite after major OS updates.
After firmware updates
- Verify the update was signed and confirmed on-device.
- Perform a tiny receive/send test.
- Re-check labels and watch-only exports.
Understand your options: where do the keys live?
Tool | Where keys are stored | Best for | Trade-offs |
---|---|---|---|
Trezor + Suite | On the hardware wallet | Long-term self-custody with deliberate approvals | Requires the device on hand for spending |
Hot browser wallet (generic) | On your computer/phone | Frequent dapp use and rapid transactions | Higher exposure if device is compromised |
Exchange app (generic) | With the exchange | Trading & on-ramps/off-ramps | Custodial risk; not self-sovereign |
Illustrative only—always verify software authenticity and understand custody implications.
Frequently asked questions
Is Trezor Suite itself a wallet?
The hardware device is the wallet. Suite is a companion app that organizes accounts and coordinates transactions while approvals happen on the device screen.
Can I recover my wallet through Suite?
Recovery is performed on the device, not on your computer. Follow on-device prompts and keep seed words off cameras and keyboards.
Does using the web interface reduce security?
Spending still requires on-device confirmation, preserving the core security model. Use a trusted bookmark and a clean browser profile.
What if a “support agent” asks for my seed?
No legitimate agent will ask for seed words or remote access to your device. If they do, it’s malware or a scam—stop immediately.
Ready to finish setup?
Open the official start page from your bookmark, install Suite, connect your device, back up the recovery phrase, and verify addresses on-device. That rhythm—slow, deliberate, and hardware-first—keeps your crypto safe without stress.
Replace the buttons with your official URLs before publishing. This template is independent and for demonstration only.