1. What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a small, secure helper application that enables communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and web-based wallets or desktop apps. It acts as a bridge (hence the name) using a local connection on your computer to ensure the device and the web application can exchange commands safely.
Key responsibilities
- Provide a stable local communication channel (USB) to the host application.
- Ensure proper device recognition across browsers and operating systems.
- Handle version checks and notify you when updates are required.
Why it matters
Without an interface like Trezor Bridge, browsers cannot directly access USB devices in a cross-platform, secure way. Bridge standardizes this interaction and reduces friction when connecting your Trezor to web wallets or the Trezor Suite.
2. How Trezor Bridge works (simple)
Local server + secure channel
When installed, Trezor Bridge runs a tiny local server on your machine and opens a safe channel that listens for requests from supported apps. Those apps talk to the local server via an HTTP/JSON API, while the Bridge forwards those requests to the Trezor device using USB protocols.
Security model
The Bridge itself does not hold your keys or sensitive data. Your private keys stay inside the Trezor hardware device. Bridge acts purely as a messenger and enforces access policies so only authorized local apps can send commands.
3. Installing & updating
Installation is straightforward: download the installer for your OS from Trezor's official site and run it. Bridge supports Windows, macOS, and Linux. Keep Bridge updated to maintain compatibility and security.
// Example command (Linux .deb install) sudo dpkg -i trezor-bridge_2.0.34_amd64.deb
Troubleshooting
- If your browser doesn't detect the device, restart bridge and reconnect the Trezor.
- Check that you have the latest Trezor Suite or web wallet and the latest Bridge release.
4. Best practices
Keep software up to date
Regularly update your Trezor firmware, Trezor Suite, and Trezor Bridge. Updates often include security fixes and improved compatibility.
Only download from official sources
Always download Bridge and Suite from an official Trezor domain to avoid tampered installers. Official links are included in the right column for your convenience.
Use trusted networks
Avoid using public or untrusted Wi‑Fi when performing sensitive actions. The most critical protection is keeping your device (and recovery seed) offline and secure.
5. Accessibility & browser support
Trezor Bridge is designed to reduce cross-browser issues. Some browsers support direct WebUSB connections, but Bridge provides a reliable fallback that works consistently across popular browsers and OS combinations.
When to prefer Bridge vs WebUSB
If your browser supports WebUSB and you prefer that path, you may not need Bridge. However, Bridge remains the safest fallback for broad compatibility and fewer manual steps.
6. Developer notes (brief)
Developers building integrations should follow the official Trezor API and respect the security patterns: never request or transmit recovery seeds, minimize permissions, and validate all inputs. Using the Bridge API ensures consistent device discovery and command forwarding.
7. FAQ
Q: What happens if I uninstall Trezor Bridge?
A: Your Trezor device will still function, but web-based apps may no longer detect it on systems that rely on Bridge. You can reinstall at any time from official sources.
Q: Is Trezor Bridge safe?
A: Yes — Bridge is a helper application that does not store keys. Security still depends on using official installers and keeping firmware up to date.
Q: Can I use Trezor Bridge on Linux?
A: Yes. Bridge provides packages and instructions for common Linux distributions. Follow the official Linux installation guides if you encounter dependency issues.
Q: My browser prompts for permission every time — is that normal?
A: Some browsers require explicit permissions for USB access. Using Bridge reduces repetitive prompts by handling a local connection, but browser security prompts may still appear depending on settings.
Q: How do I update Bridge?
A: Visit the official Trezor download page to get the latest Bridge release, or use your OS package manager on Linux where supported.