Complete guide to Trezor.io/start — Prepare, Initialize, Protect

1. What to prepare before you begin

Start by choosing a tidy, private workspace and ensure your computer is free of unnecessary browser extensions. Have a pen and secure paper or an approved backup plate available — do not rely on any digital snapshot or photo. Charge the device if required and keep original packaging nearby for verification of tamper seals when unboxing.

2. Unboxing and device check

1. Inspect the package for any visible tampering and confirm the seal integrity.
2. Power on the device and follow the on-device prompts — the screen is your primary trust anchor for key operations.
3. Only proceed if the device displays manufacturer-authenticated initialization screens; treat anything unusual as a warning and pause setup.

3. Initializing the device

When the device requests initialization, create a fresh seed phrase using the device itself. Choose the option to generate a new seed rather than restoring from an existing one. Record the seed exactly as shown, in the order displayed. Never store the recovery phrase digitally. If a device offers an additional passphrase feature, understand it well — this adds another layer, but responsibility for remembering it rests entirely with you.

4. Firmware and verification

Always confirm firmware status and apply official updates from trusted suite software. Use the manufacturer's recommended application to verify the device identity and applied updates — the device screen and suite should confirm signatures. Avoid unofficial tools for firmware updates or verification steps.

5. Secure PIN selection

Set a PIN that is memorable to you but hard to guess. Use a PIN length that is supported by the device and avoid simple patterns. The device should display each PIN digit selection on its own screen so you can verify correctness without exposing the full PIN on your host computer.

6. Using the device for transactions

1. Reconnect the device only when required and confirm each transaction on the device screen before approving.
2. Double-check recipient addresses visually and, when possible, compare on an independent device to avoid address-replacement risks.
3. Start with a small test transfer to validate the full flow before moving larger amounts.

7. Backup & long-term storage

Keep at least two secure backups of the recovery seed in geographically separated, trusted locations. Consider hardened metal backups for fire and water resistance. Store backup copies in safe deposit boxes or similarly secure repositories if holding meaningful value.

8. Routine best practices

• Periodically verify that your recovery copies are readable and legible.
• Minimize exposure of private keys; do not plug the device into public or untrusted machines.
• Maintain updated software on computers used for management and routinely audit connected services with access to your public addresses.

9. Troubleshooting & recovery

If device initialization fails, stop and refer to official support channels for guidance. If a device is lost, use a clean, trusted device to restore from your recovery copies. Never share your seed or reveal it to any party — no legitimate support representative will ask for it. If you suspect exposure, move funds to a new address derived from a new device and seed.

Final notes

Taking an intentional, careful approach at the start makes ongoing management simpler and safer. Use the physical device as the final arbiter for critical actions, protect your recovery materials with the same rigor you would protect physical valuables, and periodically revisit your setup to ensure it meets your evolving security needs.