Quick overview
Trezor hardware wallets isolate private keys on the device. To manage accounts, sign transactions and interact with dApps, your computer needs to talk to the device. Modern browsers limit direct USB access for security reasons — that’s where Trezor Bridge steps in.
How Trezor Bridge works
Trezor Bridge is a small native application that runs in the background. It exposes a local web socket or USB interface that authorized web pages (or Trezor native apps) use to communicate with the device. The Bridge ensures user consent is required on the device for any sensitive operation (like signing a transaction), and it translates browser API calls into low-level USB commands understood by the Trezor device.
Key features
- Secure communication channel between your browser and Trezor device
- Automatic updates (depending on install options)
- Cross-platform support: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Lightweight and low resource usage
Install & get started
These are general steps — follow the official installer or package for your OS for the exact flow.
- Download — Get the latest Trezor Bridge installer from the official Trezor site or Trezor Suite download page.
- Install — Run the installer. On macOS, you may need to confirm in System Preferences > Security & Privacy if the OS prompts you.
- Connect — Plug your Trezor device via USB. The device will show a prompt to confirm connection.
- Open Trezor Suite or web app — The app should detect the device through the Bridge and prompt for PIN/confirmation on the device.
Security considerations
Trezor Bridge itself is a conduit for communication — the most important security guarantees come from the hardware device. Always:
- Download Bridge only from the official Trezor domain or verified sources.
- Verify installers or digital signatures if available.
- Keep your device firmware up to date (updates are performed on the device with explicit confirmation).
- Never share your recovery seed; Bridge never needs it and will not request it.
Troubleshooting
Common issues and quick fixes
Bridge not detected
Check that Bridge is running in your system tray (Windows) or menu bar (macOS). Restart the Bridge service or reinstall the latest version. Ensure no other application is claiming exclusive access to the USB port.
Browser prompts or permission errors
Close browser windows that previously tried to access the device and reopen the web app. Some browsers keep stale permissions; a browser restart usually clears this.
macOS security blocks
macOS may block new kernel extensions or applications — open System Preferences > Security & Privacy and allow the blocked installer or process. Reboot if required.
Developer notes
If you develop integrations: Bridge exposes an API that web apps use to connect to the hardware. Use the official libraries (like the Trezor Connect library or Trezor Suite SDK) rather than implementing USB logic directly — they handle compatibility and security patterns for you.
FAQ
- Do I always need Bridge?
- No — some native apps (like Trezor Suite) can use direct drivers or bundled connectors. However, Bridge is the most common way to enable browser connections across platforms.
- Is Bridge safe?
- Yes, Bridge is designed to be a minimal, local-only agent. It does not transmit private keys or seeds — those never leave the hardware device. Always validate the source before installing.
- Will Bridge see my seed phrase?
- No. The device stores and uses keys internally; Bridge only relays commands and responses. If a website asks you for your seed phrase, it’s fraudulent — never enter it anywhere online.
- How do I update Bridge?
- Download the latest installer from the official site or use auto-update if the installer supports it. Keep your OS and browser current as well.