Setup & Best Practices
Trezor Start provides a clear, user-focused onboarding path designed to minimize risk and maximize long-term safety for your cryptocurrency holdings. The onboarding process hinges on a few non-negotiable principles: always obtain software and firmware from official sources, keep your recovery seed offline at all times, and use the hardware display for explicit transaction verification. These steps are intentional — they place the most sensitive operations inside a device you control physically, which dramatically reduces the risk of remote compromise.
Begin by visiting trezor.io/start and downloading the recommended application for your platform. After downloading, verify the installer using checksums or signatures provided on the official page. On macOS or Windows, properly verify the signature or compare SHA-256 checksums; if verification fails, do not proceed to open the file. For users who prefer a web-based flow, the official start page highlights supported browsers and connector options.
When initializing the device, the Trezor will generate a recovery seed — typically 12 or 24 words depending on your selection. Write these words down in order and store them offline. Many users choose to use metal seed backups to resist fire and water damage. Consider splitting backups across secure locations if you are protecting large balances, but be mindful of the increased operational complexity. If you use a passphrase, treat it as a separate secret; losing the passphrase can make funds inaccessible even with the seed.
Firmware verification is another critical step. Trezor devices perform secure boot checks and allow you to compare firmware fingerprints with values published on the official site. Only approve firmware upgrades when they are signed by the vendor. For transaction security, always compare the address and amount shown on the host with what is displayed on the device screen. The device’s isolated screen is the last line of defense against a compromised host machine.
After setup, practice safe habits: avoid entering your recovery seed online, be cautious of phishing attempts, and only use reputable third-party services that integrate with Trezor’s security model. Regularly check official channels for security notices and updates. For custodial or enterprise contexts, combine Trezor devices with procedural controls like multisig, separation of duties, and periodic audits to balance convenience and governance.