What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight desktop application that enables secure communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and web-based interfaces (such as Trezor Suite running in a browser). It acts as a translator between USB-connected Trezor devices and the browser, allowing you to manage accounts, sign transactions, and interact with wallets while keeping your private keys isolated on the device.
Why Bridge is needed
Modern browsers restrict direct USB access for security reasons. Trezor Bridge provides a controlled and audited channel so browser-based wallet UIs can communicate with the hardware device without exposing secrets. It preserves the security model of a hardware wallet while enabling the convenience of web-based tooling.
Supported platforms & system requirements
Trezor Bridge runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. For Windows, you may need administrator privileges to install the connector; macOS users should allow the installer in Security & Privacy if prompted. Linux distributions generally require standard package or manual installation and may need udev rules configured so the kernel grants browser access to the device.
Before installing, check the official Trezor download page for the most recent compatibility notes and the recommended release for your OS.
Installation overview
Installation is straightforward: download the official Bridge installer from Trezor’s website, run the package, and follow the on-screen prompts. After installation, the Bridge runs in the background and exposes a local endpoint the browser can use. When you connect your Trezor device, your browser-based wallet will detect it and prompt for interaction.
If you prefer a browser-native option, Trezor devices also support WebUSB in some browsers — but Bridge is often recommended for consistent cross-browser support and fewer permission dialogs.
Connecting your Trezor device
To connect, plug your Trezor into a USB port with the official cable (or a good-quality data-capable cable). Open your browser to the wallet interface (for example, Trezor Suite web) and authorize the connection on the device itself by confirming the physical prompt. Always verify device prompts carefully: the device displays transaction details and origin information for you to approve.
Security considerations
Trezor Bridge itself does not hold or transmit private keys. All cryptographic operations and confirmations occur on the Trezor device. The Bridge simply relays messages between the browser and device. Still, follow these best practices:
- Download Bridge only from the official Trezor website to avoid malicious versions.
- Keep Bridge and your Trezor firmware updated to receive security patches and feature improvements.
- Validate the integrity of installers when provided (checksums/signatures) and avoid third-party mirrors.
- Confirm every transaction on the physical device screen before approving.
Troubleshooting common issues
Connection problems are the most common Bridge-related issues. Try these steps:
- Confirm Bridge is installed and running. On most systems you’ll see a small Bridge icon or a background process.
- Use a different USB port and a known-good data cable — some charging-only cables won’t support data transfer.
- Restart your browser and, if needed, the Bridge service. On Windows, a reboot can clear driver lockups.
- Disable browser extensions that block scripts or modify page behavior; extensions can interfere with the web wallet's ability to reach the local Bridge endpoint.
- On Linux, ensure udev rules are in place so non-root users can access the USB device.
If the device is detected but transactions fail to sign, make sure your device firmware is up to date and that you have not accidentally blocked the origin in previous authorization prompts. Clearing the browser's stored permissions for the Trezor site can help reset the connection flow.
Uninstalling or updating Bridge
To update, download the newer installer and run it; the installer typically replaces the old version. To uninstall, use the system's standard removal process (Add/Remove Programs on Windows, drag-to-trash on macOS, or appropriate package manager commands on Linux). After uninstall, remove any leftover Bridge processes and restart your browser to clear cached endpoints.
Alternatives & advanced setups
For advanced users, Trezor devices can also be used with Trezor Suite (desktop app) which bundles device communication without a separate Bridge, or with compatible third-party wallets that support hardware wallets via native protocols. Developers can integrate with Trezor using official SDKs and APIs; if you build custom tooling, follow Trezor’s developer documentation and sign messages responsibly.
Keeping software current
Security and compatibility improve with regular updates. Check the official Trezor website for Bridge releases and Trezor firmware updates. Read release notes to understand changes and to ensure backward compatibility with your wallet environment before upgrading critical systems used for large transfers.
Where to get help
If you encounter unresolved problems, consult Trezor’s official support and documentation pages for step-by-step guides, logs, and diagnostic instructions. Community forums can be helpful, but always treat unofficial advice cautiously and verify solutions against official guidance to avoid exposing sensitive data.
Conclusion
Trezor Bridge is a simple, secure connector that enables browser-based interaction with Trezor hardware wallets. When installed from official sources and used alongside recommended security practices—firmware updates, careful transaction verification, and secure seed storage—Bridge provides a reliable way to manage crypto assets while keeping private keys offline on the device.
Last updated: 2025 — Always verify instructions and downloads on the official Trezor website before taking action.