How to Use Trezor Suite in Offline Mode

Trezor Suite, the official desktop interface for Trezor hardware wallets, is designed with privacy and security in mind. While it usually operates with internet access for balance updates and broadcasting transactions, you can use Trezor Suite in offline mode for sensitive operations — particularly when setting up a wallet, generating receive addresses, or signing transactions before broadcasting them from another system.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using Trezor Suite offline, why it's important, and how to do it securely.

Why Use Trezor Suite Offline?

Using Trezor Suite offline helps enhance your operational security (OpSec) by reducing exposure to internet-based threats like:

• Malware or spyware that might intercept transactions
• Phishing websites mimicking Trezor Suite
• Network-level attacks (especially on public Wi-Fi)
• Accidental broadcasting of sensitive information

It’s a common practice for cold storage setups or for users handling large amounts of cryptocurrency who want an air-gapped environment.

What You Can (and Can't) Do Offline

✅ What works in offline mode:

• Create or restore a wallet using your Trezor device
• View your account structure and receive addresses
• Generate unsigned transactions
• Export watch-only public keys (XPUBs)
• Sign Partially Signed Bitcoin Transactions (PSBTs)

❌ What requires internet:

• Syncing balances with the blockchain
• Broadcasting transactions
• Checking exchange rates
• Downloading firmware updates
• Auto-fetching ERC-20 token metadata

To complete a full offline transaction flow, you’ll need a second (online) device to broadcast the signed transaction.

Step-by-Step: Using Trezor Suite in Offline Mode

Step 1: Install Trezor Suite Desktop

Before disconnecting from the internet, install the latest version of Trezor Suite:

• Download the installer from the official Trezor site.
• Install it on the offline computer or bootable USB/live OS.

Once installed, disconnect the system from Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or mobile data.

Step 2: Connect Your Trezor Device

Plug in your Trezor Model T or Model One via USB. Trezor Suite will recognize it locally without needing an internet connection.

• If this is your first setup, create a new wallet or recover from a seed phrase.
• You can also access hidden wallets using passphrases.
• No internet is needed to create your seed — this is done securely on the device.

Step 3: Create a New Account (Optional)

Within Suite, you can add accounts like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin. While you won’t see balances offline, you can still:

• Generate receiving addresses (useful for cold wallets)
• View XPUBs to create watch-only wallets on an online device
• Prepare unsigned transactions for signing later

Trezor Suite works with hierarchical deterministic (HD) wallets, so all addresses are generated locally from your device and seed.

Step 4: Prepare Transactions (Optional)

If you're using Bitcoin or another UTXO-based coin:

1. Create an unsigned transaction using Trezor Suite or an external wallet like Sparrow or Electrum.
2. Export the transaction as a PSBT file (Partially Signed Bitcoin Transaction).
3. Use your offline Trezor to sign the PSBT.
4. Transfer the signed file (via USB or SD card) to an online device for broadcasting.

This process keeps your private keys entirely offline.

Step 5: Export Watch-Only Wallet (Optional)

Want to monitor balances and transactions from another device?

• Export your public keys (XPUBs) from Trezor Suite.
• Import these into a watch-only wallet like BlueWallet, Electrum (desktop), or Blockstream Green.
• This lets you monitor activity without exposing your private keys or needing Trezor Suite to be online.

Recommended Offline Setup (Cold Storage)

To maximize security, consider this configuration:

ComponentPurposeOffline LaptopRun Trezor Suite in isolationTrezor DeviceSign all transactions securelyLive Linux OSOptional for clean boot and securityUSB/SD DriveTransfer signed transactions or PSBTsOnline ComputerMonitor balances and broadcast TXs

This kind of setup is used by long-term holders, institutions, and advanced crypto users who want full control and minimal risk.

Additional Tips for Offline Use

• Disable automatic syncing and analytics in Trezor Suite settings before going offline.
• Use QR codes for PSBT transfers when supported (some third-party tools like Specter or Sparrow offer this).
• Store your recovery seed offline, ideally using metal seed plates or secure vaults.
• Never enter your seed phrase into an online computer, even briefly. Always use your Trezor for recovery.

Final Thoughts

Using Trezor Suite in offline mode adds an advanced layer of protection for managing crypto assets. While it's not necessary for everyday use, it's highly recommended for:

• Cold storage
• High-value wallets
• Secure transaction signing

With the right setup, you can use your Trezor device to its fullest potential while keeping your private keys air-gapped and safe from online threats.