What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight desktop application that acts as a communication interface between your Trezor hardware wallet and your web browser. Whether you're setting up your device for the first time or optimizing performance, Trezor Bridge ensures smooth interaction between the Trezor Wallet interface and your physical device.
Unlike browser extensions that can be vulnerable to security risks, Trezor Bridge provides a secure, isolated communication channel that protects your sensitive data. It runs quietly in the background, automatically detecting your Trezor device when connected via USB.
This guide explains what Trezor Bridge is, how it works, how to install or update it, and how to resolve common compatibility issues.
Why You Need Trezor Bridge
Enhanced Security
Provides a secure communication channel isolated from browser vulnerabilities, protecting your private keys and transaction data.
Seamless Connection
Automatically detects and connects your Trezor device without manual configuration or complex setup processes.
Browser Compatibility
Works across all major browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave without requiring additional extensions.
Automatic Updates
Regular updates ensure compatibility with the latest Trezor firmware and security improvements.
How to Install Trezor Bridge
1Download Trezor Bridge
Visit the official Trezor website at trezor.io/start and navigate to the Trezor Bridge download section. The installer will automatically detect your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
Always download from the official Trezor website to ensure authenticity and security. Never download from third-party sources.
2Run the Installer
Windows: Double-click the downloaded .exe file and follow the installation wizard. You may need administrator privileges.
macOS: Open the .dmg file and drag the Trezor Bridge application to your Applications folder. You may need to allow the app in System Preferences under Security & Privacy.
Linux: Install the .deb or .rpm package using your package manager, or follow the command-line instructions provided on the download page.
3Connect Your Trezor Device
Once installed, Trezor Bridge runs automatically in the background. Connect your Trezor device to your computer using the USB cable. The bridge will detect your device within seconds and establish a secure connection.
4Verify the Connection
Open your web browser and navigate to wallet.trezor.io. If Trezor Bridge is installed correctly, your device will be recognized automatically and you can proceed with wallet management.
How Trezor Bridge Works
Trezor Bridge operates as a secure middleware between your hardware wallet and web applications. Here's the technical workflow:
Local Communication
Trezor Bridge listens on localhost (127.0.0.1) on a specific port, creating a secure local server that only accepts connections from your browser.
Device Detection
When you connect your Trezor via USB, the Bridge detects it using USB HID protocols and establishes a secure communication channel.
Message Relay
The Bridge relays encrypted messages between the Trezor Wallet web interface and your hardware device, ensuring all sensitive operations happen on the device itself.
Transaction Signing
When you initiate a transaction, your private keys never leave the Trezor device. The Bridge only transmits the signed transaction back to the web interface.
Common Issues and Solutions
❌ Device Not Detected
Solution: Restart Trezor Bridge by closing it from your system tray and reopening it. Try a different USB cable or port. Ensure your device firmware is up to date.
❌ Bridge Not Running
Solution: Check your system's running applications. On Windows, look in Task Manager. On macOS, check Activity Monitor. Manually launch Trezor Bridge from your Applications folder if needed.
❌ Browser Compatibility Issues
Solution: Clear your browser cache and cookies. Disable ad blockers or privacy extensions that might interfere with localhost connections. Try a different browser to isolate the issue.
❌ Update Required Message
Solution: Download the latest version from trezor.io/start. Uninstall the old version completely before installing the new one. Restart your computer after installation.
❌ Permission Issues (Linux)
Solution: Add udev rules for Trezor devices. Run: sudo wget -O /etc/udev/rules.d/51-trezor.rules https://data.trezor.io/udev/51-trezor.rules and then reload udev rules.
Keeping Trezor Bridge Updated
Regular updates are essential for maintaining compatibility with new Trezor firmware versions and ensuring the latest security patches are applied. Trezor Bridge will typically notify you when an update is available.
To update manually:
- Visit trezor.io/start and download the latest version
- Close all browser windows connected to your Trezor
- Run the new installer (it will automatically replace the old version)
- Restart your computer if prompted
- Reconnect your device and verify the connection
Security Best Practices
Download from Official Sources
Only download Trezor Bridge from trezor.io to avoid malicious software.
Keep Software Updated
Install updates promptly to benefit from security improvements and bug fixes.
Verify Device on Screen
Always confirm transaction details on your Trezor screen, not just on your computer.
Use Secure Connections
Access Trezor Wallet only through HTTPS connections and bookmarked official URLs.
Protect Your Recovery Seed
Your recovery seed is the ultimate backup. Never enter it on a computer or share it.
Enable Passphrase Protection
Add an extra layer of security with a passphrase for advanced protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Trezor Bridge for every browser?
No, Trezor Bridge is a system-level application that works with all browsers on your computer simultaneously. You only need to install it once.
Can I use Trezor without Bridge?
Some browsers like Chrome support WebUSB, which allows direct communication without Bridge. However, Trezor Bridge is recommended for better compatibility and security.
Is Trezor Bridge open source?
Yes, Trezor Bridge is open-source software. You can review the code on GitHub to verify its security and integrity.
Does Bridge work with Trezor One and Trezor Model T?
Yes, Trezor Bridge supports all Trezor hardware wallet models including Trezor One, Model T, and newer versions.
What data does Trezor Bridge collect?
Trezor Bridge does not collect or transmit any personal data. It only facilitates local communication between your device and browser. All transaction data stays encrypted and on your device.
System Requirements
🪟 Windows
- • Windows 10 or later
- • 64-bit or 32-bit
- • USB 2.0 or higher
- • 50 MB free space
🍎 macOS
- • macOS 10.13 or later
- • Intel or Apple Silicon
- • USB 2.0 or higher
- • 50 MB free space
🐧 Linux
- • Ubuntu 18.04 or later
- • Debian, Fedora, or similar
- • USB 2.0 or higher
- • 50 MB free space
Ready to Get Started?
Download Trezor Bridge today and experience seamless, secure management of your cryptocurrency hardware wallet.