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)
1. Download
Always download Bridge from the official Trezor site. Choose the package for your OS (Windows .exe, macOS .pkg, or Linux .deb/.AppImage).
2. Install
Run the installer with administrator privileges when required. Accept prompts and complete installation steps. On macOS you may need to allow access in Security & Privacy if blocked.
3. Verify
Connect your Trezor, open the official web wallet or app and confirm the device is detected. If a browser prompt appears, allow the connection and verify the device fingerprint when shown.
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.