How to Reset Your Trezor Device Using Trezor.io/Start


Resetting your Trezor hardware wallet is a simple yet critical operation. Whether you're preparing to sell or give away your device, need to clear existing data, or want to restore a wallet from backup, performing a reset through Trezor.io/Start ensures that your device is securely wiped and ready for reuse.

This guide explains how to reset your Trezor safely, step by step.

When Should You Reset Your Trezor?

You may need to reset your device under the following circumstances:

  • You’ve forgotten your PIN and are locked out.
  • You want to start fresh with a new wallet setup.
  • You’re transferring ownership of the device.
  • You’re restoring a previous wallet using a recovery seed.
  • You suspect a compromise and want to eliminate old data.

Resetting removes all existing data from your device, including wallet credentials, passphrases, PIN, and settings. Make sure you understand the consequences before proceeding.

What You Need Before Resetting

To reset your Trezor device properly, you’ll need:

  • Your Trezor Model T or Model One device.
  • A USB cable for connecting it to your computer.
  • A stable internet connection and access to Trezor.io/Start.
  • The Trezor Suite app installed or access to the web-based version.
  • Your recovery seed (if you plan to restore a previous wallet after the reset).
Caution: Once reset, the device cannot retrieve any previously stored information. Without your recovery seed, you will not be able to recover lost funds.

Step-by-Step: Resetting Your Trezor via Trezor.io/Start

Step 1: Open the Official Start Page

Begin by visiting Trezor.io/Start in your browser. This will guide you through connecting and managing your device.

Step 2: Connect Your Trezor

Plug your device into your computer using the USB cable. If prompted, unlock it with your current PIN (if accessible). If you've forgotten the PIN, you can trigger a reset through failed PIN attempts, as explained below.

Step 3: Access Device Settings

Once connected, open Trezor Suite or continue in the browser if you're using the web interface. Navigate to Device Settings.

Step 4: Choose to Wipe the Device

Scroll to the bottom of the device settings. Locate and select the option labeled “Wipe Device” or “Factory Reset”.

Step 5: Confirm the Reset on the Device

You will be asked to confirm your choice. This confirmation must be done physically on the Trezor device screen. This safety measure ensures that the action is intentional and not triggered by remote software.

Step 6: Device Will Reboot

After confirmation, your Trezor will erase all stored wallet data. The screen will show a message indicating that the device has been reset and is ready for setup.

Alternate Method: Auto-Reset via PIN Failures

If you have forgotten your PIN and cannot access the device, Trezor has a built-in security measure:

  • The device locks after each incorrect PIN attempt, introducing increasing time delays.
  • After 16 failed attempts, the device will automatically wipe itself to prevent brute-force attacks.

After this auto-reset, the device will return to its uninitialized state, and you can set it up again.

After the Reset: What Comes Next?

Once the reset is complete, your device is cleared of all previous data. You can now:

  • Create a new wallet if you’re starting from scratch.
  • Recover a wallet using your previously backed-up recovery seed phrase.

To proceed, stay on Trezor.io/Start and follow the prompts for setting up the device again.

Important Considerations

  • Never share or enter your recovery seed on a computer or website.
  • Only reset your Trezor when you fully understand the consequences.
  • Always verify you're using the official Trezor interface before proceeding.
  • If you're disposing of or gifting the device, perform a reset to protect your data.
  • Keep your recovery phrase stored securely offline in a safe location.

Conclusion

Resetting your Trezor through Trezor.io/Start is a secure and essential feature for regaining control of your device, starting over, or preparing it for another user. It’s a straightforward process, but it demands caution. Without your recovery seed, resetting is permanent and irreversible. Always ensure your backup is safe before initiating a wipe.