1. Install & initialize — step-by-step
- Download only from the official site. Visit trezor.io/start or suite.trezor.io and choose the correct platform installer. This reduces exposure to phishing or tampered installers.
 - Run the Suite and connect your Trezor device. Use the original USB cable and follow on-screen prompts. Trezor Suite will help you check device authenticity and firmware state.
 - Initialize or restore. Choose Create new device to generate a new recovery seed, or Recover device if you already have a seed. Record your recovery seed physically and verify it when requested.
 - Set a PIN and optional passphrase. The PIN prevents unauthorized use; the optional passphrase lets you create hidden wallets for advanced operational security.
 
2. Core security concepts
Trezor’s security design separates three elements: (A) the hardware device with a secure element that keeps private keys isolated; (B) the Suite software that acts as a user-facing manager and communication channel; (C) the recovery seed that is your last-resort backup. Even if a computer is compromised, transactions must be confirmed on the physical device screen — this is the cornerstone of safe cold-storage operations.
3. Managing your portfolio
Trezor Suite provides account overviews, combined portfolio value, detailed transaction history and token support (Bitcoin, Ethereum, ERC-20s, and selected altcoins). You can:
- Install blockchain apps on your device via the Suite’s Manager.
 - Add multiple accounts and label them for clarity (e.g., “Savings — BTC”, “Trading — ETH”).
 - Use the built-in exchange integrations and external connectors for on-ramp/off-ramp operations — always confirm amounts and addresses on the device itself.
 
4. Transaction signing — practical workflow
When you create a transaction in Trezor Suite, the unsigned transaction data is sent to your device. The device displays exact details (amount, destination address, fees) and requires a physical confirmation before producing a cryptographic signature. This ensures malware on your PC cannot silently redirect funds.
5. Recovery seed best practices
Your recovery seed is the most critical asset. Treat it like a bank vault key:
- Write the seed by hand — do not store it digitally or photograph it.
 - Use a fire-resistant metal backup for long-term safety.
 - Store separate copies in geographically distinct secure locations.
 - Consider splitting the seed with Shamir Backup (if your model supports it) for enterprise-grade redundancy.
 
6. Privacy & advanced features
Trezor Suite includes privacy-oriented settings, coin-separating features and support for passphrase-protected hidden wallets. For advanced users, consider using the Suite in combination with privacy tools (coinjoin services, separate addresses for receipts) while maintaining the habit of confirming transactions on-device.
7. Maintenance & updates
Keep Trezor Suite and your device firmware updated. Before applying firmware updates, verify the update is announced on official channels and review the release notes. If an update requests your recovery seed outside the device, pause immediately — that is a red flag.
8. Common troubleshooting
- Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable, restart Suite, or use another computer.
 - Stuck during restore: Double-check seed words and keyboard layout settings; use Suite’s support guides.
 - Suspicious prompts: If any page asks for your seed or asks for unexpected permissions, disconnect and re-initiate only from official links.
 
9. Integrations & ecosystem
Trezor Suite integrates with wallets and services across the ecosystem. Common pairings include portfolio trackers, exchange providers (for swap functionality) and third-party dApps — use only audited, reputable integrations and always confirm operations on your device.