Trezor Bridge** — Connect Your Trezor Securely

Overview

Trezor Bridge is the small, trusted helper that lets your browser or desktop app communicate with a Trezor hardware wallet. It handles the secure, local channel between websites or applications and the device without exposing private keys. Installing and using Bridge correctly ensures your signing operations remain on-device while enabling convenient interactions with wallets, exchanges, and dApps.

Why Bridge Matters

Web browsers intentionally limit direct device access for security; Bridge fills the gap by offering an approved, encrypted channel. The Bridge avoids the pitfalls of browser-only USB permissions and improves compatibility across operating systems. In short: Bridge keeps the convenience of web apps while preserving hardware-level security.

Quick Install (15 minutes)

Using Bridge with Web & Desktop Apps

Once Bridge is running, supported web wallets (or the Trezor Suite desktop app) will automatically detect your device. Typical flows: open the app, choose “Connect device”, follow the on-screen prompts, unlock the Trezor by entering its PIN, and verify transactions on the device screen.

Supported Workflows

• Account discovery and balance checks
• Transaction creation and on-device signing
• Firmware update initiation (confirmation still happens on-device)
• Integration with third-party wallets and dApps

Security & Best Practices

Bridge itself is a secure conduit, but real security depends on safe habits: always update Bridge and device firmware, download only from official sources, and never enter your recovery seed into a computer or website. Treat the seed as your last line of recovery — offline-only.

Additional Safeguards

• Use a dedicated, clean machine for high-value operations when possible.
• Keep the operating system and browser up-to-date.
• Use official Trezor apps and avoid suspicious third-party downloads.

Troubleshooting

Device Not Detected

Symptoms: no response, “device not found”, or repeated connection prompts.

Steps: try a different USB cable/port, restart the Bridge service or your machine, ensure your browser allows USB access, and check the Bridge version is current. On macOS, check Security & Privacy for blocked installers.

Bridge Installation Errors

Symptoms: installer fails, permission denied, or crashes.

Steps: run installer as administrator, temporarily disable interfering security tools (re-enable later), and consult the Trezor support pages for OS-specific notes.

Advanced Topics

Multiple Devices & Sessions

Bridge can manage more than one Trezor on the same machine. When multiple devices are connected, apps will typically list them for selection — confirm the serial or label on-device before proceeding.

Developer Integrations

Developers can use Trezor Connect APIs which work with Bridge to sign transactions programmatically while still requiring on-device user confirmation for security-critical operations.

FAQ

Is Trezor Bridge safe to install?

Yes — provided you download it from the official Trezor website and verify signatures when available. Bridge encrypts local communication and never exposes private keys.

Do I need Bridge for Trezor Suite?

Trezor Suite often includes its own direct device communication; Bridge is primarily used for browser-based wallets. Check the Suite documentation for OS-specific behavior.

How often should I update Bridge?

Keep Bridge updated whenever a new stable release is available — updates include bug fixes, compatibility improvements, and security patches.

Conclusion

Trezor Bridge is a lightweight but essential component for safe, convenient use of your Trezor hardware wallet with web and desktop applications. When installed and maintained properly, it provides a reliable bridge that preserves the hardware-level security model. Follow the guidelines above, keep software updated, and always confirm actions on your device — your private keys will remain offline and protected.