Skip to main content
Trezor is a hardware wallet — a small physical device that stores your cryptocurrency private keys in an isolated, offline environment. Unlike software wallets that live on your phone or computer, Trezor never exposes your private keys to the internet, making it virtually impossible for remote attackers to steal your funds. This guide introduces how Trezor works and what you need to get started.

​
How Trezor Works

When you own cryptocurrency, what you really own is a private key — a secret code that authorizes transactions. If someone obtains that key, they can take your funds. Trezor keeps this key locked inside the device’s secure hardware, where it is never transmitted to your computer or the internet. Here is what protects your wallet at every layer:
  • Offline private key storage — Your private keys are generated and stored entirely on the device. They never leave the hardware, even when you sign a transaction.
  • PIN protection — Every time you connect your Trezor, you must enter a PIN on the device itself. Without the correct PIN, the device is inaccessible.
  • Recovery seed phrase — During setup, Trezor generates a 12- or 24-word seed phrase. This phrase is the master backup of your wallet. Write it down and store it securely — it is the only way to restore your funds if your device is lost or damaged.
  • Trezor Suite — The official companion app lets you view balances, send and receive crypto, and manage your portfolio. Trezor Suite communicates with your device but never handles your private keys directly.

​
What You Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
  • A Trezor device — Either a Trezor Model One or a Trezor Model T, purchased from trezor.io/shop.
  • A USB cable — Trezor Model One uses micro-USB; Trezor Model T uses USB-C. Both cables are included in the box.
  • A computer running Trezor Suite — Download the desktop app for Windows, macOS, or Linux from trezor.io/suite, or use the web app in a supported browser.
  • About 15 minutes — The full setup process, including writing down your seed phrase, takes roughly 15 minutes for most users.

​
Continue Your Setup

Once you have everything ready, follow the guides below to complete your setup and start securing your crypto.

Unbox Your Device

Verify the contents of your Trezor box and confirm the tamper-evident seal is intact before powering on your device for the first time.

Install Trezor Suite

Download and install the official Trezor Suite app on your computer to begin the initialization process.

Create a New Wallet

Initialize your device, set your PIN, and generate a new wallet through the guided setup flow in Trezor Suite.

Back Up Your Seed Phrase

Learn how to correctly record your recovery seed phrase and where to store it for maximum security.
The fastest way to get started is to visit trezor.io/start directly in your browser. The page automatically detects your Trezor model and guides you through each setup step in the correct order.