Congratulations on choosing a Trezor hardware wallet — one of the most secure ways to protect your cryptocurrencies. This guide helps you start up your account safely: setting up your device, creating or restoring a wallet, backing up your recovery seed, securing your account, and beginning real transactions. All steps follow the official Trezor.io/Start recommendations. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Open a web browser and navigate to Trezor.io/Start. Confirm you see the correct domain and valid SSL certificate. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Pick between Model One or Model T. Though both perform the core functions of security, Model T includes a touchscreen and additional features. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Follow the prompts to download the official Trezor Suite software for your operating system. Use only the version linked from the official page. Desktop versions are preferred for full functionality. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
With the USB cable, connect your hardware wallet. If the device doesn’t have firmware or is out‑of‑date, Trezor Suite will prompt you to install the latest version. You will also verify the device’s authenticity during this step. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
If new to Trezor, select “Create New Wallet” and generate a fresh recovery seed (12‑ or 24‑word phrase). If you already have a seed, choose “Restore Wallet” and follow prompts. Make sure your seed phrase is entered exactly and securely. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
This is a critical step. The recovery seed is your lifeline to restore your wallet if the device is lost or damaged. Write it down carefully, store it offline, and never save it as a screenshot or in cloud storage. Confirm key words as required by the device. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Create a PIN (usually 4‑9 digits) on the device to prevent unauthorized access. Be sure to choose something memorable yet not obvious. Several wrong PIN attempts will reset the device to protect your funds. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
For advanced security and privacy, you may enable a passphrase (sometimes called a hidden wallet). This acts as an extra word added to your recovery seed and creates a distinct hidden account. Do not forget this passphrase. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}