What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a small, secure background application that lets your web browser talk to your Trezor hardware wallet. It acts as a translator between USB or WebUSB APIs in the browser and the device itself so that web-based wallet interfaces (like Trezor Suite, WalletConnect-compatible dapps, and exchange withdrawal pages) can interact with your Trezor without exposing your private keys.
Why use Trezor Bridge?
- Security first: Private keys never leave your Trezor. The Bridge only forwards signed messages between device and site.
- Compatibility: Works with major browsers and operating systems; it smooths over platform differences in USB support.
- Privacy: Minimal telemetry — Bridge performs only the operations required to communicate with the device.
Quick install (overview)
- Download the official Bridge installer for your OS from an official source.
- Install and run Bridge — it launches a small local service listening on a secure loopback address.
- Open your web wallet or dapp and follow on-screen prompts to connect the device.
Secure setup step-by-step
Follow these steps to ensure a safe connection:
- Always download Bridge from an official Trezor domain or the official repository. Avoid third-party mirrors.
- Verify the installer signature or checksum when available. This step protects you against tampered installers.
- Install and run Bridge, then connect your Trezor with a trusted USB cable.
- Use the physical buttons on the Trezor to confirm any transaction or key export — never approve blind prompts coming from a site you don’t trust.
- Keep Bridge and your firmware up to date. Updates often include security fixes and compatibility improvements.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Browser can’t find the device: Restart Bridge and the browser. Ensure browser permissions for WebUSB are allowed (some browsers block WebUSB by default).
- Device disconnected unexpectedly: Try a different USB cable or port. Avoid USB hubs and extenders for initial troubleshooting.
- Bridge reports an error: Check Bridge’s logs (usually available in the application menu) and consult official support articles before sharing logs publicly.
- Wallet page is unresponsive: Close and reopen the page, or try a supported browser. Switch to a private window to rule out extension conflicts.
Security best practices
- Never share your recovery seed. Trezor Bridge will never ask for it.
- Use a hardware wallet passphrase or PIN, and enable passphrase protection for higher-value accounts where appropriate.
- Confirm addresses and amounts on the physical Trezor screen — not the web page.
- Keep your operating system and browser patched. Security is layered: Bridge is one piece of the puzzle.
Advanced: Developer & power-user notes
Developers can use the Bridge API to integrate Trezor connectivity into web apps. Bridge exposes a local HTTP/WebSocket interface that a client can use to discover devices and relay messages. Follow the official developer documentation and sign all firmware/driver artifacts.
Installation & verification
Installing Bridge varies slightly by platform. The recommended approach is:
- Visit the official download page linked from the vendor (verify the domain).
- Download the correct package for your operating system and architecture.
- Verify checksums or GPG signatures when provided. If you don’t know how to verify a signature, follow the basic checksum check at minimum (SHA256) and compare it to the published value.
- Run the installer and follow prompts. On macOS you may need to allow system permissions for kernel extensions or full-disk access depending on the version.
Privacy & telemetry
Trezor Bridge is designed with privacy in mind. It doesn't transmit your key material or transaction secrets to remote servers. Minimal anonymous usage metrics may be collected to help improve compatibility and reliability; you can opt out if you prefer — consult the Bridge settings and privacy documentation for exact toggles and options.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is Trezor Bridge safe to run?
Yes, when downloaded from an official source and used with a genuine Trezor device. The Bridge operates on your local machine and is intended to be a secure intermediary. Always verify downloads and keep all components updated.
Do I need Bridge to use my Trezor?
Some modern setups (like Trezor Suite) can communicate with Trezor devices over WebUSB without a separate Bridge, depending on the browser and OS. However, Bridge increases compatibility and simplifies communication for many web-based wallet experiences.
Will Bridge see my recovery seed?
No. The recovery seed is an offline secret entered into the Trezor device itself and never shared with software. Bridge only relays cryptographic commands and signed responses.
Design & compliance standards
This documentation and the accompanying UI follow modern web standards and accessibility guidelines:
- Semantic HTML5 structure for improved screen reader support.
- ARIA landmarks where appropriate (
role="banner"
,role="main"
). - Contrast-conscious color palette and focus outlines for keyboard users.
- Responsive layout with a mobile-first mindset.
Closing notes
Using a hardware wallet like Trezor with Bridge gives you a powerful combination of usability and security. Bridge simplifies the technical plumbing so you can focus on transacting safely. Remember: security is layered — the best results come from combining a secure device, verified software, a healthy dose of skepticism toward unknown websites, and good operational hygiene.