Trezor.io/Start® — Starting Up Your Device

ADD PLUG-IN / Trezor Bridge — install & troubleshooting

Modern browsers and desktop apps communicate with your Trezor through a small helper application or plugin called Trezor Bridge (or via native browser integration for certain desktops). Installing this ensures a stable, secure connection between your device and web apps.

What is the plugin / Bridge?

Trezor Bridge is a tiny background application that translates USB commands into secure messages between the Trezor device and the web app (Trezor Suite or other supported services). It runs on your computer and does not store keys or secrets.

Download & install (Windows / macOS / Linux)

Download the Bridge installer for your OS (placeholder link): Download Trezor Bridge.
Run the installer. On macOS you may need to approve the app in Security & Privacy if Gatekeeper blocks it.
Grant permissions if prompted (installer needs to open a background helper, but it never sees your recovery seed).
Restart browser after install to ensure the plugin is detected.

Note: Some modern browsers implement WebUSB and may not require Bridge for common tasks. If an app asks for Bridge, install it for best compatibility.

Browser plugin considerations

Trezor Bridge is preferred for broad OS compatibility. For advanced users: some browsers (Chrome, Edge, Brave) allow direct USB access via WebUSB — apps will prompt you to allow the device. If a web app recommends a browser extension or helper, follow official guidance from the app provider.

Troubleshooting: common plugin problems

Can't install

Try disabling antivirus temporarily, run the installer as Administrator (Windows) or use sudo (Linux).

Device not recognized

Reconnect the USB cable, try another cable/port, and check that Bridge is running (system tray / Activity Monitor).

Permissions

macOS: allow the helper in System Preferences → Security & Privacy. Linux: check udev rules (official installer adds them).

Advanced: verify Bridge authenticity

Only download Bridge from official sources. Verify signatures if you are a power user. The Bridge process listens on a local port and will only communicate with your browser when permitted.

Step-by-step device setup (complete guide)

Power & connect: Plug your Trezor into the computer using the provided cable. If it doesn't start, try a different cable or port.
Open Trezor Suite or go to Trezor.io/start: The web app will guide you. Allow the site to communicate with the device (a popup will ask for permission).
Firmware check: The first time the device connects, it may ask to install or update firmware. Follow on-screen prompts. This is normal and important for security.
Create a new wallet: Choose “Create new” on the device. The device will generate a recovery seed — write it down exactly as shown on the paper card provided.
Set a PIN: Choose a PIN you can remember but is not easy to guess. Never store the PIN on a connected device or online.
Confirm recovery seed: The app will ask you to confirm several words from the seed to ensure you recorded them correctly.
Install apps (optional): Add support for specific coins/tokens in Trezor Suite or third-party wallets that support Trezor.

Important: Your recovery seed is the ultimate backup. If your device is lost or damaged, the seed restores funds to a new Trezor or compatible wallet. Never share it or enter it into a website.

Security & safety checklist

Only use official downloads — never install unofficial software claiming to be Trezor Bridge.
Never enter your seed online. If someone asks you for the seed to “restore access,” it's a scam.
Keep firmware up to date but only via official prompts in Trezor Suite or Trezor.io/start.
Use a strong PIN and consider passphrase protection for advanced backup security.
Store seed offline in a fireproof/waterproof safe if possible.

What to do if you suspect compromise

If you suspect the device or computer has been compromised, move funds to a new, secure wallet using a fresh device and a new recovery seed. Contact official support for guidance — do not follow instructions from unverified sources.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Do I always need the Bridge?: Not always. Some browsers support WebUSB and can connect directly. Bridge is recommended for consistent cross-platform compatibility.
Can I use Trezor with mobile?: Yes — Trezor works with supported mobile apps over OTG or via companion apps depending on the model. Check device compatibility and official guides.
What happens if I lose my device?: If you lose the device, you can restore your wallet to a new Trezor (or compatible wallet) using your recovery seed. If the seed is lost or compromised, funds may be unrecoverable.
Is the plugin safe?: When downloaded from official channels and verified, the Bridge helper is safe. It only facilitates local communication and does not hold private keys.

Accessibility & additional resources

If you use assistive technologies or need localized instructions, visit the official support center for step-by-step videos, translated guides, and accessibility resources.

Tutorial Videos

Short clips that walk through unboxing, device setup, and using a recovery seed.

Community & Support

Join official forums or open a support ticket if you encounter unusual issues.

Developer Docs

If you're integrating Trezor into your service, use the official developer API docs and security guides.

Quick reference: checklist to finish setup

Install Bridge/plugin → Confirm it’s running.
Connect device → follow on-screen prompts.
Create PIN → Write down recovery seed offline.
Verify backup → Test recovery on a new device (optional, advanced).
Keep firmware & apps up to date via official sources.

# Example (Linux): after installing Bridge, reload udev rules
sudo udevadm control --reload-rules && sudo udevadm trigger