Trézor.io/Start® — Starting Up Your Device | Trezor®

Starting your cryptocurrency journey safely begins with a proper hardware wallet setup. Hardware wallets store your private keys offline, keeping them secure from hackers, malware, and phishing attempts. Setting up your device correctly ensures your funds remain fully under your control while enabling secure and seamless transactions.

This guide provides a complete walkthrough, from unboxing your wallet to initializing the device, securing backups, performing test transactions, and maintaining long-term safety.

Understanding the Importance of Hardware Wallets

Hardware wallets provide an extra layer of security compared to software or exchange wallets. By keeping your private keys offline, they drastically reduce the risk of cyber attacks.

Key advantages include:

Private keys never leave the device

Transactions require physical confirmation

Firmware updates maintain the latest security features

Without proper setup, even the most secure hardware wallet can be vulnerable. Therefore, following best practices during initialization is essential.

Step 1: Setting Up a Safe Workspace

Before turning on your device:

Use a personal, trusted computer

Ensure the system is updated and free of malware

Avoid public Wi-Fi networks

Work in a quiet, distraction-free environment

A secure workspace ensures that your setup process remains private and protected.

Step 2: Inspect Your Device

Before beginning:

Check the packaging for tampering

Verify that the device is new and uninitialized

Ensure no recovery phrase is pre-included

Legitimate devices require you to generate your recovery phrase during setup. Pre-written phrases are a red flag and should never be used.

Step 3: Installing Official Companion Software

Hardware wallets typically work alongside official software, which enables you to:

Manage accounts and addresses

Track balances and transaction history

Approve transactions securely

Update firmware safely

Always download the software from the official website. Avoid links from emails, ads, or social media to prevent phishing attacks.

Step 4: Initializing Your Wallet

During first-time setup:

Select “Create New Wallet”

The wallet generates cryptographic keys internally

A recovery phrase appears on the device screen

Important Points:

Generated offline

Displayed only on the device

Essential for wallet recovery

Write down the words in order and verify accuracy. Any mistakes could prevent restoration.

Step 5: Securing Your Recovery Phrase

The recovery phrase is the most critical aspect of your wallet. It enables restoration if the device is lost, damaged, or reset.

Best practices:

Write it clearly on paper

Store in a secure location separate from the device

Avoid digital backups

Never share it

Many users opt for fireproof or metal storage for added security.

Step 6: Creating a Strong PIN

Once the recovery phrase is confirmed:

Set a PIN to protect the device from unauthorized access

PIN locks the device after multiple failed attempts

Provides an essential security layer

Choose a PIN that is not predictable or tied to personal information.

Step 7: Verifying Transactions On-Device

Hardware wallets require you to approve transactions physically. This ensures:

The correct recipient address

Accurate transaction amounts

Verification of network type

Physical confirmation protects against malware that might alter transaction details on your computer.

Step 8: Performing a Test Transaction

Before transferring significant amounts:

Send a small test transaction

Confirm it arrives in the wallet

Practice approving transactions

This step ensures proper wallet operation and builds confidence for larger transfers.

Step 9: Keeping Firmware Updated

Firmware updates improve security and functionality:

Use only official companion software for updates

Avoid third-party tools

Do not disconnect the device during updates

Regular updates protect against vulnerabilities and enhance performance.

Step 10: Avoiding Scams and Phishing

Human error is the leading cause of cryptocurrency losses:

Never share your recovery phrase

Always manually verify website URLs

Ignore emails or messages requesting urgent action

Legitimate providers never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN.

Step 11: Safe Physical Storage

After setup:

Store the device in a private, secure location

Keep recovery phrase backups separate

Avoid predictable hiding spots

Some users maintain multiple backups in different secure locations to minimize risk.

Step 12: Planning for Emergencies

If the wallet is lost, stolen, or damaged:

Obtain a compatible replacement device

Select recovery mode

Enter your recovery phrase

Funds are stored on the blockchain and can be restored. Without the recovery phrase, access is impossible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Taking photos of recovery phrases

Storing backups digitally

Skipping device verification steps

Rushing setup

Using untrusted computers

Most losses happen due to preventable human errors, not device failures.

Advantages of Hardware Wallets

Hardware wallets offer:

Offline storage of private keys

Physical confirmation for transactions

Independence from third-party platforms

Long-term protection of digital assets

When used responsibly, they are among the safest methods for managing cryptocurrency.

Responsibility in Self-Custody

Self-custody gives full control but also full responsibility:

There is no central authority for lost credentials

Proper backup storage is critical

Careful planning ensures long-term access

Final Security Checklist

Before regular use:

Recovery phrase recorded and verified

Backup securely stored

PIN set and remembered

Test transaction completed

Device safely stored

Conclusion

Starting up your hardware wallet correctly is the foundation for secure cryptocurrency management. By safeguarding your recovery phrase, creating a strong PIN, verifying transactions on-device, updating firmware regularly, and staying alert to phishing attempts, you can ensure the safety and longevity of your digital assets.

Responsible setup and consistent security practices make your hardware wallet a reliable long-term solution for protecting your cryptocurrency.