Trezor.io/start: Your Command Center for Digital Self-Custody

Phase 1: Preparation and Authentication

Before connecting your new device, preparation is paramount. The official Trezor.io/start address is the single, secure entry point for your setup. Always manually type this address into your browser.

• Inspect the Device Integrity: Carefully examine your Trezor packaging for any signs of tampering, tears, or prior opening. Confirm the security seals are intact (location varies by model). *If anything looks suspicious, do NOT proceed. Contact official Trezor Support immediately.*
• Gather Your Essentials: You will need your Trezor device, the USB cable provided, the physical recovery card(s) included in the box, and a pen. Crucially, find a private, distraction-free environment for the entire process.
• Access the Official Portal: Navigate directly to Trezor.io/start. This page will guide you to download the authentic Trezor Suite application, your primary interface for managing your assets.
• Download Trezor Suite: Download and install the dedicated Trezor Suite desktop application for your operating system. Using the desktop application provides the highest level of security, as it is less susceptible to browser-based threats than web alternatives.

Phase 2: Initialization and Firmware

This is where your device comes to life. The first steps involve ensuring your Trezor runs the certified, genuine software.

• Connect and Discover: Launch Trezor Suite and connect your Trezor device to your computer using the supplied cable. The Suite application will detect your new device.
• Install Certified Firmware: Your new Trezor is shipped without pre-installed firmware. Trezor Suite will prompt you to install the latest official firmware. Confirm the firmware installation on your computer and then follow the on-screen instructions on your **Trezor device itself**. This is a critical security step to verify authenticity.
• Create a New Vault: Once the firmware is installed, Trezor Suite will ask you to set up a new wallet. Choose the option to **Create a new vault**.

Phase 3: The Secret Recovery Phrase (SRP) - Your Absolute Backup

The Secret Recovery Phrase is the master key to your digital assets. It is the only thing that can restore your funds if your Trezor is lost, stolen, or damaged. This step is *the most important* part of the entire setup.

• Initiate Backup: In Trezor Suite, select the option to **Create Backup**. Read and confirm the on-screen warnings.
• View and Record Offline: Your Trezor device will display your unique list of 12, 18, or 24 words, one at a time. **Write these words down on the provided physical recovery card(s) in the exact order.**
  ⚠️ **NEVER** digitize this phrase. Do not type it, photograph it, or store it in any cloud or password manager. It must be stored offline, physically, in a secure, fireproof location.
• Verify the Phrase: Your Trezor device will then prompt you to confirm a few words from your phrase to ensure you have recorded it correctly. This simulation is vital to confirm your backup is flawless before you secure any funds.

Phase 4: Setting the Device Access Code

The Device Access Code (PIN) is your daily shield, protecting access to your device. It is entered on the Trezor's screen (or via the scrambled matrix on Model One) every time you wish to use it.

• Set Your PIN: Trezor Suite will prompt you to set an access code. **The numbers will be displayed on your Trezor device screen, not your computer screen.** Use your computer's mouse (or the device touchscreen, depending on the model) to input the corresponding positions. This ensures that key-logging malware cannot intercept your code.
• Confirm the Code: You will be asked to re-enter the code. Note that the positions on the screen will scramble, which is a key security feature.
• Name Your Device (Optional): Personalize your Trezor with a unique name to easily identify it within Trezor Suite.

Phase 5: Finalizing the Vault

With your backup secure and your device protected by a strong access code, you can now enter your command center, Trezor Suite, and begin managing your assets.

• Access Trezor Suite: Click to finalize the setup and access the Trezor Suite dashboard. You will be prompted to enter your device access code again.
• Enable Assets: In the Suite, you can now choose which cryptocurrency accounts you wish to activate and track.
• Receive Your First Funds: To move your funds from an online platform to your newly secured Trezor vault, select the asset, click 'Receive,' and the Suite will provide a receiving address. **Always confirm this address matches exactly what is displayed on your Trezor device screen before authorizing the transfer.**

Advanced Security: The Hidden Vault

For an unparalleled layer of security, Trezor offers the **Passphrase** feature. This optional addition acts as a 25th word, creating an entirely separate, unique vault associated with your Secret Recovery Phrase. Using a strong, memorable passphrase ensures that even if your Secret Recovery Phrase is discovered, your primary funds remain inaccessible. *Use this feature only after you are completely comfortable with the standard setup, as forgetting your exact passphrase will result in permanent loss of access to the funds in that hidden vault.*

Congratulations. By following the secure path through Trezor.io/start and utilizing Trezor Suite, you have successfully claimed your digital sovereignty. Your assets are now protected by the gold standard in offline hardware security.