Your complete step-by-step tutorial for setting up your first Trezor hardware wallet and connecting it securely to your computer
If you're new to cryptocurrency and looking for the safest way to store your digital assets, you've made an excellent choice with Trezor. As a beginner, setting up your first hardware wallet might seem intimidating, but this guide will walk you through the entire process step by step.
Note: Trezor Bridge is the communication software that allows your Trezor hardware wallet to securely connect with your web browser. It's essential for using your Trezor with web-based wallets and dApps.
Before starting your Trezor Bridge download and setup, make sure you have:
Visit the official Trezor website to download Trezor Bridge:
Download Trezor BridgeTrezor Bridge is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. Select the version that matches your operating system.
Once downloaded, run the installation file:
You may need to grant administrative permissions during installation.
After installation completes:
This is the most critical security step:
Security Warning: Your recovery phrase is the master key to your cryptocurrency. Anyone with access to these words can access your funds. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone, and beware of phishing attempts asking for it.
After recording your recovery phrase:
Once setup is complete:
Trezor supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies. To add new ones:
Trezor Bridge allows you to securely interact with decentralized applications:
While Trezor Bridge is for desktop, you can use your Trezor with mobile:
No, they serve different purposes. Trezor Bridge is communication software that allows your Trezor hardware wallet to connect securely with web browsers. The Trezor wallet is the interface where you manage your cryptocurrencies. You need both for a complete setup.
No, you only need Trezor Bridge running when you want to access your Trezor wallet through a web browser. It automatically starts when needed on most systems. For daily use with Trezor Suite (the desktop app), Bridge isn't required.
Yes, your Trezor recovery phrase follows industry standards (BIP39/BIP44) and can be imported into other compatible wallets if needed. However, for security reasons, it's recommended to only use it with your Trezor device unless absolutely necessary.
If you lose your recovery phrase and don't have a backup, you risk permanently losing access to your funds if your Trezor is lost, stolen, or damaged. We strongly recommend creating multiple secure backups of your recovery phrase and storing them in different safe locations.
Yes, you can use your Trezor with any computer that has Trezor Bridge installed or with the Trezor Suite application. Your cryptocurrency is stored on the blockchain, not on any specific computer, so you can access your funds securely from different devices.
While you can't directly "import" wallets from exchanges like Uphold to Trezor, you can transfer your cryptocurrencies from your Uphold account to your Trezor wallet addresses. This process moves your funds from Uphold's custody to your personal secure storage on the Trezor.
Remember: Trezor will never ask for your recovery phrase. Any website, email, or person requesting your recovery words is attempting to steal your cryptocurrency.
If you encounter any issues during your Trezor Bridge download or setup: