What is Trezor Start?
Trezor Start is the official browser/desktop entry-point to your Trezor device. It provides a secure interface for initialization, firmware updates, recovery, and managing supported cryptocurrencies — while keeping your private keys offline on your hardware wallet.
Before you begin — quick safety checklist
- Buy your Trezor only from an authorized seller or Trezor.io. Counterfeit devices are a major risk.
- Never share your recovery seed or enter it on an internet-connected device. The seed is the wallet — protect it offline.
- Verify the device's fingerprint and firmware authenticity through the official Start flow.
- Use a strong device PIN and enable passphrase (optional but powerful if you understand it).
Step-by-step: Set up Trezor with Trezor Start
In your browser go to trezor.io/start (or use the official desktop app downloaded from trezor.io). The website will guide you through the official web-based flow.
Connect your Trezor using the original USB cable. If prompted by the browser, allow the page to access the device. You will see a device fingerprint on-screen — always confirm it matches the device display.
If the device is new, the Start app will suggest installing the official firmware. If your device already has firmware, verify its authenticity in the app. Do not install firmware from unofficial sources.
- Choose a PIN for device unlocking. The PIN is entered via the device screen to avoid keyloggers.
- Write down the recovery seed on the supplied recovery card (or a metal backup). Store it offline in a secure location (and consider geographic redundancy).
Important: Never store your seed in cloud backups, photos, or digital notes.
From the Start interface you can add accounts for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many other supported assets (via integrated apps or third-party wallets). Use transaction previews on the device screen to verify details before approving.
Using Trezor safely — best practices
- Always confirm transaction amounts and recipient addresses on the device display, not just in your browser.
- Keep firmware up to date, but only through the official Start app prompts.
- Use separate accounts for different purposes (savings vs spending) and limit on-device exposure of high-value keys.
- If you suspect compromise, recover your seed into a clean device immediately and move funds to a new address.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable/port and ensure the browser allows WebUSB. Rebooting your machine often helps.
- Firmware update failed: Retry from the official Start page. If problems persist, consult Trezor support or reinstall the desktop app downloaded from Trezor.io.
- Lost seed: Funds cannot be recovered without the seed. If lost, assume the funds are irretrievable and move remaining assets when possible once you regain access via any backups.
Advanced: Passphrase & hidden wallets
A passphrase acts as a 25th seed word and creates hidden wallets. It offers strong privacy and plausible deniability but must be used carefully: if you forget the passphrase the hidden wallet is permanently inaccessible. Consider using a secure passphrase manager (offline) or a memorized phrase you can reliably reproduce.
Supported coins & integrations
Trezor supports many major blockchains natively and via integrations (third-party wallets, exchange plugins, and web apps). Always verify compatibility of advanced tokens before transacting and consult the official compatibility list on trezor.io.