What is a Trezor Hardware Wallet?
Trezor is a hardware wallet that provides secure cold storage for cryptocurrencies. Unlike software wallets or exchange accounts, Trezor keeps your private keys offline and protected from online threats.
Developed by SatoshiLabs, Trezor was the first Bitcoin hardware wallet ever created, establishing itself as the gold standard in cryptocurrency security since 2014.
Trezor Models
Trezor offers two main hardware wallet models to suit different needs and budgets:
Trezor Model T
Premium touchscreen device
- Color touchscreen display
- Supports 1000+ coins
- MicroSD card slot
- Advanced security features
- USB-C connectivity
Trezor Model One
Original and affordable
- OLED display
- Supports 1000+ coins
- Button interface
- Proven security
- USB connectivity
Key Security Features
Trezor hardware wallets offer multiple layers of security to protect your cryptocurrencies:
Offline Storage
Private keys never leave the device, remaining safe from online threats
Recovery Seed
24-word recovery phrase allows wallet restoration if device is lost
PIN Protection
Device access protected by PIN code with randomized keypad
Transaction Verification
All transactions must be physically confirmed on the device
Open-Source
Transparent firmware that can be reviewed by security experts
Passphrase Protection
Optional passphrase creates hidden wallets for extra security
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Trezor hardware wallets support over 1,000 cryptocurrencies and tokens, including:
| Cryptocurrency | Support | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Bitcoin (BTC) | Full support | Native SegWit, Bech32, legacy addresses |
| Ethereum (ETH) | Full support | ERC-20 tokens, DeFi integration |
| Litecoin (LTC) | Full support | SegWit, native addresses |
| Cardano (ADA) | Full support | Staking, governance |
| Polkadot (DOT) | Full support | Staking, governance |
| ERC-20 Tokens | Full support | Thousands of tokens |
Setup Guide
Setting up your Trezor hardware wallet is straightforward:
Initial Setup
- Connect your Trezor to your computer using the USB cable
- Visit trezor.io/start in your web browser
- Download and install Trezor Bridge (if needed)
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the firmware
- Create a new wallet or recover an existing one
- Write down your 24-word recovery seed on the provided card
- Verify your recovery seed by selecting the words in order
- Set a PIN code to protect your device
Using Trezor Suite
Trezor Suite is the official desktop application for managing your Trezor device:
- Download Trezor Suite from the official website
- Connect your Trezor device
- Install apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage
- Create accounts for different cryptocurrencies
- Send and receive transactions with device confirmation
Security Best Practices
Follow these guidelines to maximize the security of your Trezor wallet:
Device Security
- Always purchase directly from trezor.io or authorized resellers
- Check that your device's packaging is intact and tamper-evident
- Never use a device that appears to have been opened previously
- Set a strong PIN code and never share it
Recovery Seed Security
- Write down your 24-word recovery seed on the provided card
- Never digitize your recovery seed (no photos, cloud storage, etc.)
- Store multiple copies in secure locations
- Consider using a metal backup solution for fire/water protection
- Never share your recovery seed with anyone
Transaction Security
- Always verify receiving addresses on your device screen
- Double-check transaction details before confirming
- Keep your device firmware updated
- Use passphrase protection for additional security
Trezor vs. Other Wallets
How Trezor compares to other cryptocurrency storage options:
| Feature | Trezor | Software Wallets | Exchange Accounts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Key Control | ✅ You control keys | ✅ You control keys | ❌ Exchange controls keys |
| Offline Storage | ✅ Fully offline | ❌ Always online | ❌ Always online |
| Malware Protection | ✅ High protection | ❌ Vulnerable | ⚠️ Server-dependent |
| Transaction Verification | ✅ Physical confirmation | ❌ Software only | ❌ No confirmation |
| Recovery Options | ✅ Seed phrase | ✅ Seed phrase | ❌ Password reset |