Overview
A Trezor hardware wallet stores your private keys offline and signs transactions in a secure environment, keeping funds safe from malware and remote attackers. This guide explains how to set up your device, perform common operations (receive, send, backup), and adopt secure habits that reduce risk. Follow each step carefully — hardware wallets are powerful tools but require responsibility.
1. Initial setup
Unboxing and verification
Inspect the box for tamper-evident seals and any signs of previous opening. Only proceed if the package looks intact. When you first connect the device, use the official website (type the URL yourself) to download the recommended app or web interface. The device and official app typically perform a genuine check — follow the prompts and verify any fingerprint or code shown.
Connect and initialize
- Connect the Trezor to your computer with the supplied USB cable.
- Navigate to the official start page and follow on-screen prompts to initialize a new device or recover an existing wallet.
- Set a device PIN when prompted. The PIN prevents local access to the device if it is lost or stolen.
2. Backup: writing down your recovery seed
During setup the device will generate a recovery seed (12–24 words). This seed is the master key to your funds — anyone with it can restore your wallets.
- Write the words in order on the supplied recovery card. Use permanent ink and avoid pencils that can fade.
- Create multiple physical copies and store them in separate, secure locations (e.g., home safe, bank safe deposit box).
- Never photograph, digitize, or store the seed in cloud services or on networked devices.
Warning: If you lose the seed and the device, funds may be irrecoverable. Treat the seed with the same care as cash or legal documents.
3. Receiving funds
To receive funds, generate a receive address in the wallet app and verify it on your Trezor device screen before sharing it. Verification on-device ensures that a compromised computer did not substitute the address.
- Open your wallet application and select the account (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
- Click "Receive" to generate an address.
- Confirm the address on the device screen — the app's address must match the device display. Only then share the address with the sender.
4. Sending funds
When sending, prepare the transaction in the app, verify details on your device, then confirm the signature. Always check the destination address and amounts on the Trezor screen.
- In the app, enter the recipient address and amount, and set an appropriate fee.
- Review the transaction summary on your computer.
- Confirm the transaction details shown on your Trezor device and approve signing by entering your PIN if required.
- Broadcast the signed transaction via the app; wait for network confirmations.
5. Advanced features
Passphrase-protected (hidden) wallets
Adding a passphrase to your recovery seed creates additional hidden wallets. This increases security and plausible deniability, but if you lose the passphrase you lose access to the associated funds. Store passphrases securely and consider using a password manager or physical token in an offline location.
Multi-signature setups
Multi-sig distributes signing authority across multiple devices or parties. For high-value holdings, using a multi-signature scheme reduces single-point-of-failure risk but requires coordination and secure backups for each signer.
Air-gapped operation
For maximal security, advanced users can use Trezor in an air-gapped mode where unsigned transactions are transferred via QR or SD card between an offline signing device and an online computer. This reduces exposure to network threats at the cost of convenience.
6. Firmware updates and maintenance
Keep device firmware up to date to benefit from security patches and new features. Only install updates offered through the official app or site. During updates, verify any integrity prompts shown by the device. Regularly check official channels for security announcements.
7. Recovery and lost-device procedures
If your device is lost or destroyed, you can restore wallets on a new Trezor or compatible hardware using your recovery seed. To recover:
- Obtain a new, genuine hardware wallet.
- Choose "Recover wallet" during setup and enter your seed words in the correct order.
- Set a new PIN and verify restored accounts in the app.
If you suspect the seed has been exposed, move funds to a new wallet with a freshly generated seed as soon as possible.
8. Common pitfalls & troubleshooting
- Device not recognized: try a different USB cable or port, and ensure your browser supports the required connection method (WebUSB, etc.).
- Genuine check fails: disconnect and reconnect the device; verify you are using the official site URL typed directly into your browser.
- Forgot PIN: a factory reset will wipe the device; restore from the recovery seed to regain access.
9. Best practices checklist
- Always verify addresses on the device screen.
- Keep multiple, offline backups of your recovery seed in separate locations.
- Never enter your recovery seed into any website or software wallet.
- Consider multi-sig or air-gapped signing for high-value holdings.
- Update firmware only from official sources and verify signatures when available.
FAQ
Can I restore my Trezor seed on another brand of device?
Many hardware wallets support common seed standards (BIP-39). Check compatibility before attempting recovery on a different brand — always follow official guidance to prevent exposing your seed to unsafe software.
Is my seed the same as my private keys?
The recovery seed deterministically generates your private keys. In effect, the seed grants equivalent control. Keep it secure.
Conclusion
Trezor and other hardware wallets offer strong protection by keeping private keys offline and requiring physical approval to sign transactions. Proper setup, secure backup of your recovery seed, and cautious daily practices (verifying addresses and using firmware only from official sources) will keep your digital assets safe. If you're managing significant funds, consider advanced controls like multi-signature schemes and air-gapped signing for an extra layer of protection.