Overview: Why start at Trezor.io/Start?
Setting up a hardware wallet is the moment you take custody of your cryptocurrency security — and first impressions matter. Trezor.io/Start is the official, guided onboarding route that walks you from unboxing to a secure, usable device. This presentation covers the practical steps, time estimates, and safety best practices so that you — or your audience — can follow confidently.
Objectives
- Understand the official setup flow at Trezor.io/Start.
- Complete the device setup securely and offline where possible.
- Create and protect your recovery seed; verify the device and firmware.
- Create a reproducible handout and slide notes for an instructor-led session.
Audience
This material is aimed at users new to hardware wallets, workshop facilitators, and office trainers who need a reproducible, colorful presentation with headings and printable resources.
Step-by-step: 10-step timed setup (estimated)
Below is a practical 10-step timeline you can use when walking users through Trezor.io/Start. Times are approximate and assume a patient beginner.
1 — Unboxing & inspection
Verify sealed packaging and inspect the device for tamper-evident signs. Confirm model and serial label against your order. Keep the box for storage.
2 — Visit Trezor.io/Start
Open a modern browser and navigate to trezor.io/start. Always type the URL yourself — do not follow unsolicited links. The official site detects your model and provides step-by-step instructions.
3 — Install Trezor Bridge or Suite
Depending on your OS, install the recommended connector (Trezor Bridge) or use the Trezor Suite web app. Follow the prompts to connect your device securely via USB.
4 — Firmware check & update
Confirm the firmware fingerprint shown on the device matches the web app. If an update is required, apply it using the official flow — this ensures the device runs trusted code.
5 — Create a new wallet
Choose "Create new" and let the device generate a recovery seed. Use a quiet environment — seed words are sensitive. Do not photograph or digitally store the seed.
6 — Write down and verify recovery seed
Write each word on the supplied seed card or on a secure metal backup. Confirm words when prompted by the device to verify accuracy.
7 — Set a PIN
Choose a PIN you can remember but which is not easily guessable. Some users opt for a passphrase in addition to the seed — treat a passphrase like a separate secret.
8 — Create accounts & test transaction
Add an account (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and receive a small test amount to validate the address and signing flow. Verify addresses on the device display.
9 — Backup strategy & storage
Decide where to store your seed: safe, bank deposit box, or a steel backup. Consider geographic redundancy and access procedures for heirs or business continuity.
10 — Final checks and cleaning up
Confirm firmware, remove unnecessary connections, and record device serials for inventory. Teach users how to detect phishing and confirm official URLs.
Security tips and best practices
Keep the seed offline
Never take a photo or store your seed on cloud services or a computer. Favor physical backups (paper + steel), and use a safe or secure storage location. A laminated copy or a steel plate greatly increases durability.
Verify addresses on-device
Always confirm the receiving address on the Trezor device's screen before sending funds. Malware on a computer can change addresses — the device display is your ground truth.
Use passphrase with care
A passphrase increases security but also raises the risk of permanent loss if forgotten. If used, document recovery procedures and consider a split knowledge approach (trusted custodian; multi-sig where appropriate).
Speaker notes (for each slide)
Use the following short prompts while presenting: introduce the rationale, demonstrate the device live, pause for audience to copy seeds, monitor time for each step, and run a test transaction in front of everyone to demystify the process.
Printable handout
Quick checklist
- Unbox and inspect device.
- Visit trezor.io/start.
- Install connector or Suite.
- Confirm firmware & update.
- Create wallet and write seed.
- Verify seed and set PIN.
- Add account and test receive.
- Secure backups in safe storage.
- Document serials and recovery plan.
- Finish and teach phishing checks.
Print this page two-column for handout distribution.
Frequently asked questions
What if I lose my seed?
If the seed is lost and you have no other backup, funds are unrecoverable. This is why multiple offline backups are critical. Consider multi-sig or custodial solutions for institutional needs.
Can firmware updates be trusted?
Use only updates from the official Trezor site and confirm firmware signatures shown on the device. Do not install third-party firmware unless you fully understand the security implications.