Trezor Start: Security & Best Practices
A focused security checklist to lock down your Trezor® wallet from day one.
Secure Initialization — the essence of "trezor start"
The initial setup (the trezor start) determines how resilient your crypto holdings will be against theft, loss, and social engineering. Security begins with verifying firmware and following manufacturer steps closely.
PIN & passphrase: layered protection
Use a strong PIN and consider a passphrase for an extra hidden wallet. Trezor® supports passphrases that create separate hidden wallets — this is powerful but must be used carefully: losing the passphrase means losing access.
Recovery seed storage
Never store your 12/24-word seed online. Use fireproof, waterproof storage options or metal seed backups. Consider splitting the seed into parts or using a bank safe deposit box for long-term holdings.
Firmware & software hygiene
Always update firmware from official Trezor® sources. Avoid third-party firmware or unofficial downloads. Keep the host computer free of malware and use a verified Trezor Suite or trusted client for transactions.
Operational security (OpSec)
Limit who knows you have a hardware wallet and where you store it. When performing large-value operations use an isolated, trusted device and confirm addresses on-device during transactions — the single most important confirmation during any trezor start operation.
- Verify box & tamper-evidence
- Install official firmware
- Create strong PIN
- Write seed offline & store safely
- Enable optional passphrase (if you understand how it works)