Introduction — Why a hardware wallet?
A hardware wallet such as Trezor is a dedicated device that stores your private keys offline, protecting them from malware, phishing and online theft. This presentation walks you through powering up, initializing, and securing your device so you can safely manage cryptocurrencies. Think of this as a compact, practical short-course you can present or follow step-by-step.
Goals of this guide
By the end of this guide you will be able to:
- Safely unbox and power on your Trezor device.
- Install official software and create a secure seed.
- Understand backup, recovery, and firmware best practices.
- Recognize common troubleshooting steps and official resources.
Before you begin (Checklist)
- Obtain the device from an official source — never accept a used device that is already initialized.
- Find a quiet, private space for setup — don’t set up in public Wi-Fi hotspots or where others can see your screen or seed.
- Have a pen and the included recovery card or a secure offline notebook ready for your seed phrase.
Step 1 — Powering on & first impressions
Unbox the device and inspect the packaging seal. Connect your Trezor to a computer or mobile device only when you're ready to start. When powered, the device will display a welcome screen and a device model name — confirm that matches the model you purchased.
Step 2 — Install official software
For the cleanest experience, install Trezor Suite or visit the official start page. Always use the official website links below — bookmarks are recommended after verifying the domain. Avoid third-party downloads and links in unsolicited messages.
Step 3 — Initialize & create your seed
Follow on-device instructions to create a new wallet. The device will generate a recovery seed (normally 12, 18, or 24 words). Write these words exactly and in order on the provided recovery card — never take a photo or store your seed digitally.
Step 4 — PIN, passphrase, and additional security
Set a strong PIN on the device. Optionally, enable a passphrase (this acts as a 25th word and can create hidden wallets). A passphrase adds security but requires careful handling — if forgotten, it cannot be recovered.
Troubleshooting & best practices
If the device fails to boot, reconnect with a different USB cable or port. For software errors, reinstall Trezor Suite using the official site. Never enter your recovery seed into any website or app — the seed belongs only on the physical recovery card and the hardware device.
Firmware updates
Keep firmware up to date. Updates are released to improve security and add features — install them only from the official suite or start page. The device will verify firmware authenticity during installation.
Recovery process (short)
If your device is lost or stolen, buy a new device and recover using your seed. Enter your recovery words carefully on the new device's protected input. After recovering, consider transferring funds to a fresh wallet if you suspect the seed was exposed.
Presentation tip
During a live presentation, never demonstrate writing a real recovery seed. Use a mock seed or example words and emphasize the privacy and offline storage of a real seed.
10 Official resources (colorful & quick links)
Below are ten official pages and resources you can reference or include in slides. Each link is styled with its own color to make slide designs lively and memorable.
Slide-ready summary (for presenters)
Slide 1: Title — Trezor.io/Start | Starting® Up® Your® Device® (include logo and subtitle).
Slide 2: Why hardware wallets? (three bullets).
Slide 3: Pre-setup checklist (3-4 items).
Slide 4: Live demo (use mock seed) — power on, install Suite, new wallet, set PIN.
Slide 5: Recovery & backups (emphasize offline storage).
Slide 6: Firmware & updates (safety practices).
Slide 7: Troubleshooting quick tips. Slide 8: 10 official resources (use colorful link cards). Slide 9: Q&A and closing notes.
Language & accessibility tips
Use simple language for non-technical audiences. Add screenshots with high contrast, and provide printed handouts showing the recovery card example (with mock words). Speak slowly when describing the seed — it’s sensitive and must be kept offline.
Security quick-check before finishing
- Confirm device package was sealed and untampered.
- Verify you downloaded software from official domain only.
- Never disclose seed, PIN, or passphrase to anyone.
Closing note
A hardware wallet places you in control of your crypto, but it also places responsibility on you. With careful setup, regular firmware updates, and the safe storage of your recovery seed, your funds remain under your control and protected from online threats.
Key presenter script (short):
1. "This device keeps your keys offline."
2. "We will now install official Trezor Suite — follow only the official links."
3. "When the device shows the recovery words, write them on paper — never digital."
4. "If you lose the device, recover with your seed on a new device."