Your Three Essential **Trezor Setup** Steps
Install the **Firmware** (The Operating System)
The very first step for your new **Trezor Wallet** is installing the official **Firmware**. This software is the internal operating system that governs all cryptographic operations, ensuring they remain isolated and secure on the chip. When you connect your device via USB to your computer, the official **Trezor Suite** software will detect the new device and prompt you for the installation. This initial setup guarantees the integrity of your **Hardware Wallet**, protecting against any tampering. Always verify the signature of the **Firmware** update through the **Trezor Suite**—a critical security check designed to confirm you are loading genuine Trezor code and maintaining the highest standard of **Cryptocurrency Security**.
*Note: If the **Trezor Wallet** has been used before, you should perform a factory reset, but for a brand new device, the **Firmware** installation is step one.*
Set Your Unique **PIN** (Daily Access Protection)
Next, you must set a **PIN**—a numeric code that protects your **Trezor Wallet** from unauthorized physical access. Every time you connect the device, you will be required to enter this **PIN** using the randomized input screen displayed on your computer and confirming the corresponding pattern on your Trezor device. This unique method foils keyloggers and screen-capture attacks, significantly enhancing your **Security**. Choose a strong **PIN** (4 to 9 digits is recommended) that you can easily remember but no one can guess. The **PIN** acts as the immediate barrier between a physical attacker and your stored **Private Keys**. This step is mandatory for achieving true **Self-Custody** without daily worry.
*Remember, the **PIN** is a local access code, distinct from your global **Recovery Seed**.*
Write Down Your **Recovery Seed** (The Master Backup)
This is the most critical part of your **Trezor Setup**. The **Recovery Seed** (usually a **24-word Seed**) is a standardized list of words (BIP-39) that can regenerate your entire wallet—all your **Private Keys**—on any compatible device, including a new **Trezor Hardware Wallet**. It is the absolute backup if your physical device is lost, stolen, or destroyed. Write these words down *only* on the provided cards, *offline*, and store them in multiple secure, secret locations. **Never** store this digital copy online, take a photo, or type it into a computer. The **Recovery Seed** is the ultimate key to your **Self-Custody** and the foundation of your long-term **Web3** wealth protection.
*Upon completing this step, your **Trezor Wallet** is fully initialized and ready to securely manage your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other crypto assets.*
**Self-Custody**: The Trezor Philosophy
By successfully completing the **Trezor Setup** process, you are participating in true **Self-Custody**. This means you, and only you, have control over your **Private Keys**. Unlike leaving assets on an exchange, where you rely on a third party's security, the **Hardware Wallet** model puts you entirely in charge. The **Trezor Wallet** keeps the **Private Keys** offline, in cryptographically secure isolation. This decentralized security model is the core principle of **Web3** and the best defense against exchange hacks, government seizures, and centralized control.
This initial **Initialization** phase is crucial because it is the only time the device generates the **24-word Seed** and confirms the **Firmware**. Everything you do afterward, whether interacting with **DeFi** protocols or sending funds, relies on the absolute security foundation established during this **Setup**. Take your time, double-check your **Recovery Seed** backup, and rest assured knowing you are protected by the industry's gold standard in **Cryptocurrency Security**. Your journey toward financial sovereignty starts here at **Trezor.io/Start**.