What is a Trezor® hardware wallet?
A Trezor® hardware wallet is a small, tamper-resistant device that stores your cryptocurrency private keys offline. Unlike software wallets, the private keys never leave the device — transactions are prepared on a computer or phone but must be confirmed and signed on the Trezor® hardware itself. This architecture dramatically reduces the attack surface for phishing, malware, and remote attackers.
Core components: Trezor® Wallet & Trezor® Suite
The Trezor® Wallet refers to the combination of the device and the software interface you use to manage accounts. For the best experience, use the official Trezor® Suite, which provides a secure desktop and web interface for portfolio viewing, sending/receiving assets, and managing firmware. Suite communicates with your device through approved channels so private keys remain isolated.
Connectivity: Trezor® Bridge
If you use a browser-based workflow, install Trezor® Bridge. Bridge is a lightweight official helper that enables reliable communication between your browser and the Trezor® device. Always download Bridge from the official domain and avoid third-party mirrors.
Getting started & official setup
Begin with the official onboarding resources at Trezor.io/start. That hub includes verified Suite installers, step-by-step setup instructions for initializing your device, generating a recovery phrase, and applying firmware updates. Follow the recommended safety checklist: use the official site, confirm firmware prompts on-device, and store recovery seeds offline.
Troubleshooting & common fixes
Encounter problems? Visit the Troubleshooting section at Troubleshooting — Trezor.io. Typical fixes include trying a different USB cable or port, reinstalling Trezor® Bridge, updating the Suite, and ensuring your OS grants browser permissions. If a firmware update fails, follow official recovery instructions — do not rely on unverified guides.
Key security benefits
Offline key storage
Private keys never touch the internet — they remain inside the device.
On-device verification
All addresses and amounts are shown on the device screen for manual confirmation.
Recovery seed
Deterministic seeds allow safe recovery if the device is lost or damaged — store them offline.
Open-source & auditable
Trezor® firmware and design are transparent, allowing security audits by the community.
Frequently asked questions
How do I set up my Trezor® device?
Start at Trezor.io/start, download Trezor® Suite, connect your device, follow the initialization flow, and write down your recovery phrase on paper or a trusted steel backup.
What is Trezor® Bridge and do I need it?
Trezor® Bridge enables browser-based connections to your device. If you use Suite’s web version or certain web wallets, install Bridge from trezor.io/bridge for reliable detection.
How do I update firmware safely?
Use Trezor® Suite to check and apply firmware updates. Confirm the update fingerprint and approve installation directly on the device display; never install firmware from unofficial sources.
What if my Trezor® won't connect?
Try a different USB cable/port, reboot your host device, reinstall Bridge, or consult Troubleshooting — Trezor.io for step-by-step diagnostics.
Can I use third-party wallets with my Trezor®?
Yes. Many wallets support Trezor® devices, but for firmware updates and the most integrated experience, Trezor® Suite is recommended.
What happens if I lose my Trezor® device?
Restore your accounts on a new Trezor® or compatible wallet using your recovery phrase. If you lose both device and recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered — secure your seed offline.