The trezor.io/start page is designed as the canonical onboarding experience for new Trezor hardware wallet owners. It provides step-by-step guidance to help users unbox, initialise, secure, and confidently use their Trezor device. The content balances simplicity for beginners with advanced options for experienced users, ensuring that every owner can establish a secure workflow for storing and managing cryptocurrencies. The primary focus is on keeping private keys offline, verifying device integrity, and teaching best practices for backup and recovery.
The first section of the start guide explains how to inspect the package and the device for signs of tampering. It encourages users to check seals, examine the physical hardware, and confirm that accessories match what is expected. Performing this integrity check reduces the risk of compromised devices and gives users confidence that their unit is genuine. The guide recommends setting up the device in a private, well-lit area to avoid distractions and accidental exposure of sensitive information.
trezor.io/start walks users through connecting the device to a computer or compatible mobile device and installing any required firmware updates. Firmware updates often include security patches, new features, and bug fixes; applying the latest firmware before transferring any funds is strongly advised. The onboarding instructions show how to confirm update prompts on the device screen, ensuring that the installation is intentional and that update integrity is verified by the user.
A core element of the start flow is generating a recovery seed phrase. The device creates a random sequence of words that functions as the ultimate backup for wallet access. The onboarding content emphasises writing the recovery phrase down exactly as displayed and storing it offline in a secure location. It explains why digital copies are risky and offers practical tips for safe storage, such as using dedicated seed storage tools or hardened materials that resist fire and water. Users are taught how to verify the seed and confirm that they recorded it correctly.
To protect against casual physical access, the start guide explains how to set a PIN code for the device. It also describes the optional passphrase feature, which acts as a hidden wallet layer tied to the recovery seed. The content carefully explains the tradeoffs of using a passphrase: it can significantly enhance security and privacy but also increases the risk of irreversible loss if the passphrase is forgotten. The guide offers best practices for choosing a memorable but hard-to-guess PIN and safe approaches to managing passphrases.
After setup, trezor.io/start shows how to use the Trezor interface to view balances, generate receiving addresses, and craft transactions. An important security point reinforced by the guide is that all transactions must be approved directly on the hardware device. This requirement protects funds even if the connected computer is infected with malware, because the private key never leaves the device and the final approval happens physically on the device screen.
The start page stresses the importance of testing backups and practicing recovery procedures. Users are encouraged to simulate a recovery using a spare device or a secure recovery tool to confirm that the written seed phrase and any passphrases will restore access. The guide includes tips for creating redundant, geographically separated backups and for protecting recovery material from theft, environmental damage, and social engineering attempts.
A significant portion of the onboarding content is dedicated to everyday operational security. This covers recognising phishing attempts, avoiding suspicious software and emails, and never entering recovery seeds into websites or apps. The guide instructs users on verifying device screens, double-checking transaction details, and treating recovery information as highly sensitive. Users are also advised to only install trusted software updates and to prefer official tools for interacting with the device.
For power users, trezor.io/start provides optional advanced topics such as using multiple accounts, integrating with compatible wallets, and employing passphrase strategies for compartmentalisation. These sections are presented as optional, allowing beginners to complete a secure basic setup first and explore advanced features later. Clear explanations and warnings accompany advanced instructions to minimise accidental misconfiguration.
The guide also includes straightforward troubleshooting advice for common issues like connection problems, firmware update failures, or display errors. Practical tips help users isolate hardware versus software issues and safely retry steps without risking sensitive data. The troubleshooting section encourages careful documentation of device behaviour and conservative decision-making when uncertain.
trezor.io/start is a comprehensive, user-focused resource built to make secure custody approachable. By following the start steps—verifying the device, applying firmware updates, recording and safeguarding the recovery seed, and practicing secure transaction workflows—users can substantially reduce the risks associated with managing cryptocurrencies. The onboarding experience is designed to leave users confident, informed, and prepared for long-term ownership of their digital assets.