A calmer start to self-custody Practical guide · 8 min read
THE SELF-CUSTODY FIELD GUIDE 01 / 06

A thoughtful
start to self-custody.

Your Trezor device puts you in control of your digital assets. This step-by-step guide helps you set it up carefully, understand your recovery backup, and build good habits from day one.

Start the guide No rush. Your pace, your keys.
INDEPENDENCE, BUILT ONE STEP AT A TIMESCROLL TO EXPLORE
THE COMPLETE STARTER GUIDEUPDATED FOR NEW OWNERS

A hardware wallet can make managing digital assets more deliberate: sensitive approvals happen on a separate device, while you keep your recovery information under your own care. The important part is a careful first setup. Use this guide alongside the on-screen instructions at Trezor.io/Start, and always let your device—not an unexpected message—lead the process.

01
A GOOD FOUNDATION

Before you begin

Give yourself a quiet few minutes and use a computer or phone you trust. Find the official setup instructions by typing trezor.io/start into your browser yourself. Check the address carefully before continuing; saved bookmarks are useful once you have confirmed the correct destination. Avoid setup links sent in unsolicited messages, search advertisements, comments, or pop-ups.

Unpack the device and its included accessories. If the packaging looks unexpectedly opened, altered, or inconsistent with what you expected, stop and contact the retailer or official support before entering any information. Connect the device directly to your computer with the supplied cable when possible. Keep your workspace private, and do not let another person photograph, copy, or handle your recovery backup.

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A simple preparation check

Trusted device · official setup address · a private place to write down your recovery backup.

02
FOLLOW THE DEVICE

Set up your device

Open the official setup page and follow its current directions for your device model. Install or open the recommended Trezor software only through the destination linked from that official page. Connect your device and read each prompt on its own display. Take a moment to compare what you see on the device with the action you intended to take on your computer.

If the device needs a firmware update, use the official software flow and keep the cable connected until the process says it is complete. Do not unplug it midway through an update. Once ready, choose the option to create a new wallet if this is your first setup. Follow the device prompts to create a PIN where supported. Choose something you can enter reliably, but do not reuse an obvious code or share it with anyone.

There is no need to hurry through these screens. If a prompt is unfamiliar, pause and consult the current official instructions for your exact device. A legitimate setup should never require you to send your recovery words to a person, paste them into a web page, or disclose them in a message.

01Open the official start page→02Connect and follow device prompts→03Create and verify your backup
03
YOUR MOST IMPORTANT RECORD

Protect your recovery backup

Your recovery backup is the way to restore access if your device is lost, damaged, or replaced. Depending on your device and selected setup, it may be presented as a sequence of recovery words or another supported backup method. It is not a password reset service: anyone who gets the complete backup may be able to take control of the assets associated with it.

Write or record the backup only as directed on the device and in the official setup flow. Check every word or entry carefully, in the correct order, and complete any verification requested by the device. Store the finished backup offline in a place that is private, durable, and protected from common hazards such as water, fire, and casual discovery. Consider whether your storage choice remains accessible to you over time.

Never photograph it, store it in a cloud drive, type it into a note, or share it with support staff. A legitimate support representative does not need your full recovery backup. Be especially cautious of anyone who claims they need the words to validate, synchronize, unlock, or protect your wallet. Keep the backup separate from your device when practical, and make any additional copy only if you can protect it just as carefully.

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Your device helps authorize actions.
Your recovery backup restores control.

TREAT IT LIKE THE KEYS TO YOUR HOME
04
START WITH A SMALL TEST

Your first use

After setup, take a moment to learn how the wallet software and device work together. Explore the available account and asset options, but do not send funds until you understand the network, the address, and the fees involved. For a first transfer, many people prefer to begin with a modest amount they can afford to risk while learning the process.

When receiving assets, display the address in the official software and verify it on the device screen. If you plan to share the address, compare the full address—not just the first few characters—before sending it. When making an outgoing transaction, read the destination and amount on the device itself and approve only if those details match your intention. A computer display alone is not a substitute for checking the device.

Networks and asset support can change. Check current official compatibility information before moving an unfamiliar asset. Sending to the wrong network or address may be irreversible, so take special care with copied addresses, QR codes, and urgent requests.

05
GOOD HABITS, EVERY TIME

Everyday safety

Keep the device firmware and the companion software up to date using only the official update process. Before approving a transaction, look at the device display and confirm the exact details. Reject a request you did not initiate, even if a message or screen suggests that acting quickly will solve a problem. Urgency is a common tactic for getting people to overlook a detail.

Use a fresh browser tab to reach official help pages rather than following unsolicited links. Treat direct messages, QR codes, and phone calls claiming to offer wallet support with caution. Do not share your recovery backup, PIN, or device access with anyone. A genuine support conversation can help explain general steps without requiring secret wallet information.

Think through how you will access your recovery backup in an emergency, while keeping it private in everyday life. Let a trusted person know where your emergency plan is documented if that suits your circumstances, but do not casually give them the backup itself. Revisit your plan when you move, change devices, or update how you store important records.

06
PAUSE, VERIFY, THEN CONTINUE

When something feels off

If your device, software, or packaging behaves differently from the official instructions, stop before approving anything or entering secret information. Disconnect only when it is safe to do so and consult the official support resources reached from Trezor.io. Do not rely on a stranger who contacts you first, and never follow instructions that ask you to reveal your complete backup.

If you cannot find your device, keep your recovery information private and review the official guidance for your particular situation. If you suspect someone has seen your backup, use trusted official guidance promptly to understand protective next steps. Never post your recovery details in a community forum or support conversation—even partially.

✳
A FINAL REMINDER

Slow is a security feature.

Check the source. Read the device. Protect the backup. When in doubt, pause and verify through official resources.

✳
KEEP IT CLOSE

Your first-day checklist

  • ✓I reached setup by entering the official address myself.
  • ✓I followed the instructions for my exact device.
  • ✓I checked and stored my recovery backup privately.
  • ✓I verify important actions on the device display.
  • ✓I know that nobody needs my recovery words.
READY WHEN YOU ARE

Continue with the official setup.

Check the latest instructions and device-specific steps directly at Trezor Start.

Go to Trezor.io/Start
END OF GUIDEKEEP YOUR KEYS. KEEP YOUR CALM.