Trezor Bridge

What is Trezor Bridge?

Trezor Bridge is a small background application that facilitates communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and desktop or web applications. It acts as a translator between a browser or local wallet software and the USB-connected device, enabling secure transaction signing, address verification, firmware updates and device configuration.

Why use Bridge instead of direct USB access?

Browsers restrict direct access to USB devices for security reasons. Trezor Bridge provides a controlled interface that lets authorized wallet applications communicate with the hardware wallet without exposing low-level USB access to arbitrary web pages or extensions. This separation reduces attack surface while preserving user convenience.

• Enables modern browsers to talk to Trezor safely.
• Supports firmware installations and device initialization.
• Provides cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux).

Security and privacy by design

Trezor Bridge does not transmit your private keys or seed phrases anywhere. The private key material remains on the device and all signing operations happen inside the secure chip. Bridge strictly handles the transport layer — it relays requests and responses but cannot sign transactions or reveal secrets.

Bridge also follows minimal-privilege principles: it only opens communication when a trusted local application requests it, and it does not run unnecessary services or telemetry by default.

Installing and updating

Installation is straightforward. Download the Bridge installer for your platform from the official Trezor website and follow the guided setup. When Trezor Suite or a supported web interface requires Bridge, it will either prompt you to install it or detect an existing installation.

Example steps:
1. Visit the official Trezor site.
2. Download the Bridge installer for Windows/macOS/Linux.
3. Run the installer and allow system prompts.
4. Reopen your wallet software and connect the device.

Keep Bridge updated to benefit from security fixes and compatibility improvements. Most installers offer an auto-update option or notify you when a newer version is available.

Troubleshooting common issues

Even with a robust design, users occasionally run into problems. Here are quick checks you can perform:

• Device not detected: Make sure the USB cable is data-capable (some charging cables don't carry data).
• Bridge not running: Verify the Bridge process is active in your OS process list or restart the app.
• Browser prompts blocked: Allow the site to communicate with Bridge when your browser shows a security prompt.
• Firmware update fails: Do not disconnect the device during an update. If it fails, follow official recovery instructions.

Compatibility and system requirements

Bridge is built to be cross-platform. Typical requirements include a modern desktop OS, an up-to-date browser (with WebUSB/WebHID support where applicable), and a functioning USB port. Some platforms may use different connection APIs; the installer will adapt the Bridge service accordingly.

Best practices

• Always download Bridge from the official Trezor website to avoid tampered installers.
• Use a secure, malware-free computer when performing large transactions or firmware updates.
• Verify firmware fingerprints on the device screen when prompted during updates.
• Keep your recovery seed offline and never enter it into a computer or web form.

FAQ

Q: Can Bridge access my seed phrase?
A: No — Bridge only relays communications; the seed never leaves the device.

Q: Is Bridge required for mobile use?
A: Bridge is primarily a desktop service. Mobile platforms may use direct OTG or native integrations without Bridge depending on the device and app.

Get started

Ready to connect your Trezor? Install Bridge from the official source, then open your Trezor Suite or preferred compatible wallet. When prompted, allow the connection — your device will request confirmation on its screen before any sensitive operation.