The definitive guide to the official Trezor setup portal, a critical safeguard against phishing and a starting point for secure self-custody of your digital assets.
In the world of cryptocurrency, security is paramount. The single greatest threat to a hardware wallet user is a phishing scam. The Trezor team created Trezor.io/start to provide a trusted, verified entry point for all new and existing users.
By only ever navigating directly to Trezor.io/start, you drastically reduce your risk of encountering malicious sites designed to steal your recovery seed.
Before connecting, inspect the packaging. Check for any signs of tampering, such as damaged seals or open boxes. For Trezor Model T, verify the hologram sticker covering the USB port. If anything seems suspicious, do not proceed and contact Trezor support immediately.
Official Link Reminder (1/10): Visit the official setup page: Trezor.io/start
Upon visiting Trezor.io/start, you will be prompted to select your device (e.g., Model One, Model T, Safe 3, Safe 5) and then download and install the official desktop application: Trezor Suite.
Trezor Suite is the secure, all-in-one interface for managing your assets, updating firmware, and performing all transactions. It ensures that the critical security steps are performed only through trusted, verified software.
Official Link Reminder (2/10): Download link is provided exclusively on Trezor.io/start
This phase involves the most crucial security steps. Your private keys are generated *offline* on the Trezor device.
A new Trezor device comes without firmware. Trezor Suite guides you to install the latest, officially verified firmware. This process includes a cryptographic check to ensure the firmware is legitimate and has not been tampered with. This is a core feature of Trezor's open-source security model.
Official Link Reminder (3/10): All steps are initiated via Trezor.io/start
The device will prompt you to create a new wallet, which involves generating your unique 12, 18, 20, or 24-word Recovery Seed (now often called the Wallet Backup). This is the master key to your funds. The words are displayed only on the Trezor screen (or Model T touchscreen), never on your computer screen.
Write your Recovery Seed down on the provided backup cards, and store it securely offline. Never take a picture of it, type it into a computer, or store it in the cloud. Anyone who finds your seed owns your crypto.
Official Link Reminder (4/10): Secure instructions are on Trezor.io/start
You must set a PIN to protect your physical device. The PIN is entered using a shuffled, randomized matrix displayed on the computer screen (for Model One) or directly on the device's touchscreen (for Model T/Safe 5). This prevents keyloggers from capturing your PIN.
Official Link Reminder (5/10): Begin your setup safely at Trezor.io/start
Once initialized, your Trezor is ready to secure your assets. Trezor Suite offers advanced features for enhanced security and functionality.
The passphrase is an optional, additional layer of security, creating a "hidden wallet" that is protected by your Recovery Seed *plus* a custom word/phrase only you know. For maximum security, this is highly recommended for experienced users with significant holdings.
If you forget your passphrase, your funds are permanently lost, even if you have the Recovery Seed. Use with extreme care.
Official Link Reminder (6/10): Learn about the Passphrase on Trezor's official site: Trezor.io/start
Trezor Suite allows you to view your portfolio, send/receive cryptocurrencies, swap assets, and stake supported coins. All transactions requiring private key access (i.e., sending funds) must be confirmed physically on the Trezor device screen.
Official Link Reminder (7/10): Find all product guides at Trezor.io/start
A: It is the only guaranteed safe entry point. Scammers create realistic-looking fake sites (phishing sites) with similar URLs. If you search and click on a sponsored result, you risk downloading malicious software or entering your Recovery Seed into a scammer's site, leading to total loss of funds. **Always type the official URL directly.**
Official Link Reminder (8/10): Your safe haven is Trezor.io/start
A: As long as you have your **Recovery Seed (Wallet Backup)**, your funds are safe. The device itself is just a key. You can buy a new Trezor (or other BIP39-compatible hardware wallet) and use your Recovery Seed to restore access to your entire wallet, including all your coins and tokens.
Official Link Reminder (9/10): Restore your wallet safely via Trezor.io/start
A: Yes. Crypto is a long-term asset. What is small today could be significant tomorrow. Protecting your keys from the beginning prevents regret later. Hardware wallets provide the highest level of security for any amount of digital assets.
Official Link Reminder (10/10): Start your security journey here: Trezor.io/start
Trezor’s foundation on open-source, verifiable security, combined with the dedicated official setup page, ensures that users can confidently take control of their finances. The journey into self-custody starts with verification and adherence to the official process.
Remember: No legitimate support, application, or service will ever ask for your Recovery Seed. Keep it offline and private.