Get Started with the Trezor Model One

Introduction to Trezor Model One

The Trezor Model One is a hardware wallet designed to securely store and manage cryptocurrencies. As a trusted product by SatoshiLabs, it ensures that your private keys are kept offline, reducing the risk of hacking or theft.

This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough to get started with your Trezor Model One, covering unboxing, setup, security, transaction management, and best practices for keeping your crypto assets safe.

1. Unboxing Your Trezor Model One

When you first receive your Trezor Model One, carefully inspect the packaging. Genuine Trezor devices come with tamper-evident seals and a clean, minimalist design.

• Ensure the seal is intact before opening.
• Inside, you’ll find the Trezor device, a USB cable, recovery seed cards, and a quick start guide.
• Never use a Trezor with a broken seal, as it may have been tampered with.

Once unboxed, keep the packaging and documentation, as they are useful for reference or warranty claims.

2. Downloading and Installing Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite is the official software for managing your Model One wallet. It allows you to create and recover wallets, send and receive cryptocurrencies, and update firmware.

1. Visit the official page: trezor.io/start.
2. Download Trezor Suite for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
3. Open the installer and follow the instructions to install the application.
4. Launch Trezor Suite and connect your Model One device using the supplied USB cable.

Trezor Suite also has a web version accessible at suite.trezor.io/web, but the desktop application is recommended for security.

3. Connecting the Device

Once Trezor Suite is installed, connect your Model One to the computer using the USB cable. Trezor Suite should automatically detect your device and prompt you to proceed with setup.

• If your device is brand new, select Create New Wallet.
• If you have an existing wallet, choose Recover Wallet to restore it using your recovery seed.

If the device is not recognized, install the Trezor Bridge, a small program that ensures proper communication between your computer and the Trezor device.

4. Installing Firmware

Before using your Trezor, ensure the firmware is up to date. Firmware updates improve security and functionality.

1. In Trezor Suite, select Install Firmware when prompted.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions and confirm actions on your Trezor device.
3. Wait until the installation is complete and the device restarts automatically.

Never install firmware from third-party sources. Only use the official Trezor Suite application.

5. Creating a New Wallet

For first-time users, creating a new wallet is straightforward:

1. Select Create New Wallet in Trezor Suite.
2. The Model One will generate a recovery seed — a list of 24 words representing your private key.
3. Write down these words on the provided recovery cards and store them in a secure, offline location.
4. Confirm the recovery seed by following the verification steps on the device.

Never store your recovery seed digitally. This seed is the key to accessing your cryptocurrencies if your device is lost or damaged.

6. Recovering an Existing Wallet

If you already have a Trezor recovery seed, you can restore your wallet:

1. Choose Recover Wallet in Trezor Suite.
2. Enter your 24-word recovery seed using the Trezor device interface.
3. Follow the instructions to verify and complete the restoration process.

This ensures your private keys are never exposed to the computer or internet.

7. Setting a PIN

The PIN code adds an extra layer of security. Each time your Trezor is connected, you will be prompted to enter it.

1. Follow the PIN setup instructions in Trezor Suite.
2. Choose a PIN that is unique and not easily guessable.
3. Do not share your PIN with anyone.

The PIN protects your device even if it is physically lost or stolen.

8. Optional Passphrase Protection

For additional security, you can enable a passphrase. This functions as a 25th word to your recovery seed, creating hidden wallets.

• Passphrases are not stored on the device and must be remembered.
• This feature is optional but recommended for advanced users.
• Be careful: if the passphrase is forgotten, access to that wallet is lost permanently.

9. Navigating Trezor Suite

Trezor Suite’s interface is intuitive and allows full control over your assets:

• Dashboard: Overview of all assets and balances.
• Accounts: Manage individual cryptocurrencies.
• Send: Create secure transactions.
• Receive: Generate addresses for incoming payments.
• Trade: Swap cryptocurrencies via integrated services.
• Settings: Adjust security, privacy, and device options.

10. Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

Receiving Crypto

1. Select the Receive tab.
2. Choose the account and cryptocurrency.
3. Click Show full address and verify it on the device screen.
4. Share the verified address with the sender.

Sending Crypto

1. Select the Send tab.
2. Enter the recipient’s address and the amount.
3. Confirm the transaction details on the Trezor screen.
4. Approve the transaction by pressing the confirmation button on the device.

Every transaction requires physical confirmation on the Model One, providing maximum protection against malware and phishing attacks.

11. Updating and Maintaining Security

Regular updates keep your Trezor Model One secure:

• Check Trezor Suite regularly for firmware updates.
• Always update firmware from the official application.
• Keep your recovery seed safe before performing major updates.

12. Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Device Not Recognized: Try reconnecting, use another USB port, or reinstall Trezor Bridge.
• PIN Lockouts: Multiple failed PIN attempts cause delays. Use the recovery seed if necessary.
• Firmware Errors: Restart the device and update using Trezor Suite.
• Lost Recovery Seed: Unfortunately, access cannot be restored without it. Always keep backups offline.

13. Best Practices for Using Trezor Model One

• Always verify website URLs to avoid phishing attacks.
• Store recovery seeds offline in a secure location.
• Enable PIN and consider passphrase protection for maximum security.
• Verify each transaction on the device before confirming.
• Regularly audit connected applications and revoke unused access.

Conclusion

The Trezor Model One provides a secure and reliable way to manage your cryptocurrencies offline. By following this comprehensive setup guide, you can safely create, recover, and manage your wallet while maintaining strong security practices.

Always rely on official resources from trezor.io/start for downloads, firmware updates, and support. With proper care, the Trezor Model One ensures that your crypto assets remain under your control, protected from online threats.