How to Use Trezor Wallet — Step by Step Guide

What you need

• A genuine Trezor device (Model One or Model T).
• A computer or compatible mobile device with an up-to-date browser.
• A USB cable (or adapter) to connect your Trezor.
• A clean, private surface to write your recovery seed (paper or steel backup).
• Time and focus — set aside 20–40 minutes for initial setup.

1. Unbox and inspect

1. Inspect the packaging and tamper-evident seals. Only use a device that comes in sealed packaging from the official retailer.
2. Unpack and verify the contents: the device, USB cable, recovery cards, and quick-start guide.

2. Install Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is the official desktop/web app used to manage your device. Always install from trezor.io (type the address yourself).

1. Open your browser and go to trezor.io. Click Apps > Trezor Suite and download the desktop app for your OS, or use the web version if preferred.
2. Install and launch Trezor Suite. Grant any OS permissions if prompted.

3. Connect and initialize your Trezor

1. Connect the device to your computer with the supplied cable.
2. Trezor Suite will detect your device and guide you through initialization. Choose Create new wallet unless you are restoring from an existing seed.
3. Confirm that the firmware prompt on-screen matches the device display before approving any action on the device. Install firmware if prompted — only install firmware that the device requests via the official Suite.

4. Write down your recovery seed

This is the single most important step. The recovery seed (12, 18, or 24 words) is the only backup to recover your funds if the device is lost or broken.

1. When prompted, write your recovery seed on the provided recovery card or a dedicated metal backup — do not store it digitally.
2. Keep the seed offline and split it across secure locations if desired (avoid single-point storage).
3. Do not take photos or store copies in cloud drives, email, or note apps.

5. Set a PIN and optional passphrase

• PIN: Choose a PIN on the device when prompted. This prevents local unauthorized access if your Trezor is stolen.
• Passphrase (optional): A passphrase acts as a 25th word. It increases security but adds complexity: if you lose the passphrase, you will lose access to that wallet. Only use it if you understand the risks and manage it securely.

6. Add accounts and cryptocurrencies

1. Open Trezor Suite and navigate to Accounts. Click Add account and choose the cryptocurrency (BTC, ETH, LTC, etc.).
2. For tokens (ERC-20, BEP-20), follow the Suite prompts to add support or use a compatible DApp connection.
3. Label accounts for clarity (e.g., Bitcoin - Savings).

7. Receiving funds

1. Choose the account you want to receive into and click Receive.
2. Verify the address shown in Trezor Suite matches the address on your device screen before sharing it. This ensures no address substitution malware is present.
3. Only use the shown address once if you prefer fresh addresses; Trezor supports many addresses per account.

8. Sending funds

1. Click Send, enter the recipient address and amount, or paste the address. Verify everything carefully.
2. Set the network fee — higher fees usually mean faster confirmation.
3. Confirm the transaction details on the Trezor device display and then approve the transaction on the device. Never approve a transaction without verifying it on the hardware screen.

9. Firmware, software updates & maintenance

• Keep Trezor Suite and your device firmware up to date. Updates patch vulnerabilities and add features.
• Only update firmware when prompted by the official Suite; never install firmware from third parties.
• Periodically verify your recovery seed and device behavior in a safe test environment.

10. Security best practices

• Buy devices only from authorized sellers and verify tamper seals.
• Never enter your recovery seed into a computer or phone.
• Use a passphrase for additional privacy if you can store it securely.
• Consider a metal backup for fire/water resistance.
• Use multi-sig or split-storage strategies for large holdings.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Common issues: device not recognized, firmware update stuck, or Suite unable to detect accounts. Restart your computer, try a different USB port/cable, and ensure your OS drivers are updated. Use the official Trezor support pages for deeper help.

• Lost recovery seed? If you lose it and don’t have access to your device, funds cannot be recovered. Keep multiple secure copies.
• Device broken? Recover using your recovery seed on a new Trezor or compatible BIP39 wallet (follow vendor guidance).
• Is the passphrase necessary? Only if you want extra security or plausible deniability; it complicates recovery and backup management.