Trezor Bridge — Secure & Smooth Crypto Access

What is Trezor Bridge?

Trezor Bridge is a small background application that securely mediates communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and web applications such as wallets, portfolio tools, and exchanges running in your browser. Instead of relying on older browser USB APIs or plugins, Bridge runs on your computer and provides a stable, OS-level channel for pages to talk to your device while keeping critical keys on the hardware wallet itself.

This guide explains why Bridge matters, how to install and configure it on Windows, macOS and Linux, and how to troubleshoot the most common connection issues. We also cover security best practices and tips for a smooth day-to-day experience.

Why use Trezor Bridge?

Reliable connectivity: Bridge reduces friction between browser updates and hardware access by acting as a stable local bridge.
Better security model: Your private keys never leave the Trezor device — Bridge only transports messages for signing and verification.
Cross-platform: Works on Windows, macOS, and many Linux distributions with a consistent interface for web apps.
Simple updates: Bridge updates independently so compatibility issues are less likely when browsers change.

Tip: Browser extensions that request direct USB access can be fragile. Using Bridge provides a controlled channel and is recommended for most desktop setups.

System requirements & preparations

Before installing, make sure you have:

A supported operating system (Windows 10/11, modern macOS, or a recent Linux distribution).
Administrator / elevated privileges to install the Bridge application.
A Trezor hardware wallet (Model T or One) with a charged battery if applicable.
A modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave) — update to the latest stable release for best compatibility.
Access to the official Trezor download page when installing to avoid phishing sites.

Security reminder: Always download Bridge from the vendor’s official site. Do not install packages from untrusted locations or run unknown executables.

Install & set up — step-by-step

Follow these steps for a smooth installation. The exact UI will differ slightly by operating system, but the flow is the same.

Download from the official page: Open your browser and navigate to the vendor's official downloads page. Choose the Trezor Bridge package for your operating system.
Run the installer: On Windows, run the downloaded .exe and follow the prompts; on macOS, open the .dmg and drag the Bridge app to your Applications folder; on Linux, follow the provided instructions (commonly a .deb or distribution-specific package).
Grant permissions: During installation you may be prompted to allow background service or grant USB permissions — accept these so Bridge can manage device connections.
Launch Bridge: After install, Bridge typically runs in the background and may show a small tray/menu icon. A browser page may open confirming Bridge is active and listening on a localhost port.
Connect your Trezor device: Use an official cable to connect your Trezor. Open your chosen web wallet or app and follow its instructions to connect a hardware wallet. Grant permission when your browser prompts you to allow the site access via Bridge.
Verify device prompts: Always confirm on the Trezor’s screen when asked to allow a connection or sign a transaction. Bridge does not bypass on-device confirmations — the device must approve sensitive actions.

If a connection fails immediately after install, restart your browser or computer and try again. On Linux, you may need to add a udev rule for USB access — follow the official Linux instructions on the vendor docs page.

Security best practices

Bridge simply forwards messages between your browser and device. Security depends on how you use it. Follow these non-negotiable practices:

Keep your Trezor firmware updated: Firmware updates fix security issues and add features. Update only via official vendor tools and verify update prompts on-device.
Verify URLs: Only connect your device to trusted websites. Verify domain names and bookmarks — attackers use lookalike domains to trick users.
Confirm on-device: Always read and approve transaction details on the Trezor's screen. Never approve a request you don’t fully understand.
Run official Bridge builds: Use signed, official installer packages from the vendor’s website to avoid tampered software.
Limit background services: If you’re not using Bridge, you can quit the application. Only run it when you need to connect your device for added security.

Everyday use — tips for a smooth workflow

Connecting quickly

Keep Bridge running during a session so connections are fast and consistent.
Use the official cable — low-quality cables can cause intermittent disconnects.
Close browser tabs that might have stale sessions or competing connections to the device.

Signing transactions safely

Check the receiving address on the Trezor screen before approving — malware can alter app displays but cannot change the hardware display.
If a signing request looks odd, cancel and inspect the transaction details in the app and on-device.
When delegating or staking, understand the contract details and permissions you grant before signing.

Troubleshooting — common issues & fixes

Bridge not detected by browser

Restart your browser and ensure no other app is blocking the port Bridge listens on (usually localhost).
Check the Bridge tray/menu icon or status page to confirm it is running.
Reinstall Bridge with the latest installer from the official site.

Device disconnects randomly

Try a different USB cable and port; avoid USB hubs.
Disable power-saving settings that turn off USB ports on laptops.
Confirm firmware is up to date and that the host machine's USB drivers are healthy.

Permission errors on Linux

On Linux you may need to add a udev rule or run Bridge with the correct permissions. Consult the vendor’s Linux installation docs for the exact udev file and commands.

Browser prompts keep appearing

Clear site data or consent cache for the site you are using, then reconnect and grant persistent permission when prompted. If prompts persist, update your browser or test with a different supported browser.

FAQ

Do I need Bridge on mobile?

No — Bridge is intended for desktop use. Mobile apps usually connect to Trezor devices directly via Bluetooth (if supported) or use mobile-friendly integrations. Refer to mobile app documentation for compatibility.

Can Bridge see my private keys?

No. Bridge only relays messages between your browser and the device. Your private keys remain securely stored inside the Trezor hardware and never leave it.

Is Bridge open source?

Many components of the Trezor software ecosystem are open source. Check the vendor’s official repositories and documentation if you want to audit source code or understand implementation details.

How do I update Bridge?

Download the latest Bridge installer from the official site and run it — Bridge will replace the old version. Some distributions and package managers may receive updates via their native channels.

Final notes & recommendations

Trezor Bridge gives you a reliable and secure way to connect your hardware wallet to web-based tools without exposing keys. Maintain good operational security, keep firmware and Bridge updated from official sources, and always double-check on-device displays before approving sensitive actions. When in doubt, pause the operation and consult official documentation or support resources.