Connecting Your Device Securely & Seamlessly
Trezor Bridge is a vital component in the Trezor ecosystem. It serves as the communication layer between your browser (or software) and the Trezor hardware device. Unlike browser extensions or deprecated plugins, Bridge offers a modern, secure, cross-platform interface. Once installed, it enables your browser or Trezor Suite to detect, communicate with, and manage transactions on your hardware device reliably.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything about Bridge—installation, compatibility, troubleshooting, best practices, and FAQs. By the end, you’ll be fully equipped to use Bridge with confidence.
Historically, hardware wallets had to rely on browser extensions or legacy plugins to bridge the communication between the web and the device. This approach had security and compatibility drawbacks. Trezor Bridge replaces older models and offers improved stability, better performance, and stronger isolation.
Some of the core advantages of using Trezor Bridge include:
Trezor Bridge is essential for accessing key functions like Trezor Login, performing transactions, and updating firmware.
To get started, visit Trezor.io/start. This page offers the correct download for your operating system. Once you download the installer (Windows `.exe`, macOS `.dmg`, or Linux package), run the installer and follow the prompts. After installation, Bridge will run in the background and allow web pages or Trezor Suite to connect to devices.
Here's a step‑by‑step overview:
After setup, your device should be visible in Trezor Suite or supported web wallets.
Trezor Bridge works on major OS platforms:
Browser support includes most modern browsers like Chrome, Brave, Edge, Firefox (with WebUSB support), and others. Make sure your browser is up to date. Bridge ensures compatibility even when browser policies change.
During installation or first use, Bridge may request permission to communicate with USB devices. Grant access only if you trust the source. The communication is encrypted and limited in scope—only the signed transactions or commands are relayed; your private keys never leave the hardware device.
Bridge updates are critical for maintaining compatibility with new OS patches or browser changes. Updates are usually automatic or prompted via Trezor Suite or Bridge’s internal checker. Always install updates to avoid connectivity issues.
When you launch Trezor Suite after installation, it detects Bridge running in background. Suite sends commands (e.g. “get device info,” “sign transaction”) via Bridge, which routes them to the hardware device and returns signed responses, all while ensuring secure isolation.
The workflow typically is:
Some web wallets support directly interacting with hardware devices via Bridge and WebUSB / WebHID APIs. The integration ensures the site doesn't bypass Bridge’s security layer. This allows users to perform Trezor Login or transaction signing directly in the browser.
Bridge maintains logs useful for diagnosing connectivity issues. In the settings, you may enable debug mode or collect logs to troubleshoot. If connection fails repeatedly, check USB cable, drivers, or conflicting software (other wallet software, USB hub, virtual machines).
Even with robust design, users might run into issues. Below are common problems and solutions:
This can be caused by a bad USB cable, blocked permissions, or OS-level driver issues. Try:
Some browsers restrict USB access due to security policies. Try:
Interrupting firmware update can lead to recovery mode. If this happens, follow the recovery guide via Trezor Suite. Do not disconnect prematurely. Ensure stable power and USB during the process.
This might be due to OS updates, permission resets, or conflicting USB software. Solutions:
Trezor Bridge uses a local daemon (service) that communicates over secure IPC / socket interfaces with host software and USB endpoints. The Bridge service acts as a controlled “middleman,” enforcing access rules so that only allowed commands reach the device.
Security model highlights:
Every transaction or firmware update is signed and checked cryptographically. Bridge helps ensure that even if the host environment is compromised, the adversary can’t trick the hardware device without user approval.
Yes. Trezor Bridge is the recommended and supported method for your computer or browser application to communicate securely with Trezor devices. Without it, most web-based interactions will not function correctly.
No, not if you want to continue using Suite or web wallets. Bridge must remain installed and active to facilitate communication. Uninstalling it will break the connection.
Yes, it runs as a minimal service and only listens to local connections. It does not expose the device to the network. Communications are limited, authenticated, and encrypted.
You can manually download the latest version from Trezor.io/start and install it. Be sure to close applications using it before updating.
First, check your USB cable and ports. Then ensure Bridge is running and permitted by firewall/antivirus software. Try restarting your computer or reinstalling Bridge. If issue persists, you can collect logs and contact support.