What Is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight, official software component developed by SatoshiLabs that serves as a secure link between your Trezor hardware wallet and web‑based applications. It facilitates communication when the browser in use cannot directly access the hardware via WebUSB or WebHID.
By running locally on your computer, Trezor Bridge ensures that private keys never leave the device. It enables interaction with web applications like Trezor Suite Web, decentralized exchanges (DEXs), wallets, and other web3 tools, while maintaining a high standard of security and usability.
Why You Need It
- Browser compatibility: Some browsers limit direct USB device access or disable WebUSB / WebHID for security. Bridge fills the gap.
- Secure communication: All data transferred between browser and device via Bridge is local and encrypted, minimizing exposure.
- Reliability: Fewer connection dropouts compared to older methods, especially on non‑Chromium browsers.
- Cross‑platform support: Works on Windows, macOS and various Linux distributions.
- Essential for web‑based tools: If you use browser‑based crypto apps, Trezor Suite Web, or third‑party wallets, Bridge is often required.
How It Works
- You connect your Trezor device via USB to your computer.
- Trezor Bridge runs as a local service on your computer, listening for requests from supported web applications.
- A web app (for example Trezor Suite Web) requests hardware access, which Bridge mediates.
- You confirm the action directly on your Trezor device; the private key never leaves the device.
- The transaction or requested action is carried out securely.
Installation Guide
Installing Trezor Bridge is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official Trezor start page: trezor.io/start to get directed to the Bridge download.
- Go to trezor.io/bridge and select the installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Run the installer and follow the on‑screen instructions.
- After install, restart your browser if it was open, then connect your Trezor device. The Bridge will typically auto‑start in the background.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Device Not Detected: Ensure your USB cable is data‑capable and connection solid. Try different ports.
- Browser Permissions: Some browsers require explicit permission for USB or device access. Check the browser settings.
- Bridge Not Running: Check if the Bridge service (sometimes called ‘trezord’ or similar) is active. Restart it if needed.
- Outdated Versions: Make sure both your Trezor firmware and the Bridge version are up to date.
- Conflicts with Other Software: Disable interfering extensions or other apps that manage USB / hardware device access.
Security & Best Practices
Using Trezor Bridge safely involves more than just downloading the correct installer. Here are best practices to maintain safety and privacy:
- Always download Bridge from the official Trezor site: trezor.io/bridge or via trezor.io/start. Avoid third‑party or mirror sites.
- Verify digital signatures if provided. Check that the version matches what is announced on official channels.
- Never share recovery seed, PIN, or passphrase digitally. All confirmations happen on device.
- Keep your system, browser, and Trezor firmware updated to avoid vulnerabilities.
- If you use the Trezor Suite Desktop version, you may not need Bridge at all, since the desktop app handles direct communication.
Alternatives & When Bridge Might Not Be Needed
In some cases, you may not need to use Trezor Bridge:
- If you're using **Trezor Suite Desktop app**, which directly communicates with your hardware wallet.
- If your browser supports modern WebUSB / WebHID protocols and has permissions enabled. Chrome and some Chromium‑based browsers are increasingly supporting these directly.
- If your operating system and browser are fully compatible and up to date, making Bridge redundant.
Supported Browsers & Platforms
Trezor Bridge works with:
- Windows 10 / 11
- macOS (latest and recent releases)
- Linux distributions (Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, etc.)
- Web browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Brave, Opera, etc.