What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is an allow-listing proxy that allows secure communication between a Trezor device and web-based wallets (for example, the official Trezor Suite or third-party integrators). It replaces older browser plugins and exposes a small local endpoint to which browser tabs connect. Bridge keeps hardware wallet operations isolated while keeping interactions smooth and reliable.
Installation & setup
Download: Visit the official Trezor website and download the Bridge installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Always verify the URL you use and prefer the official domain to avoid tampered installers.
- Windows: Run the installer and allow the service to start. You may need admin privileges.
- macOS: Approve the kernel extension prompt if the system asks, and allow incoming network permissions if prompted.
- Linux: Use the provided package or the AppImage and follow the distribution-specific instructions (enable udev rules where required).
Using Bridge safely
Only install Bridge from the official sources. Do not run unsigned or copied installers. Bridge itself acts as a local-only service; it does not transmit wallet keys or seed phrases off your machine. Maintain these best practices:
- Keep your OS up to date and run antivirus/anti-malware scans where applicable.
- Confirm the address in your Trezor device screen before approving any transaction.
- Never enter your recovery seed into a computer or online form; recovery should only be done on-device when absolutely necessary and offline.
Troubleshooting common issues
If your browser can't see your Trezor, try the following:
- Restart Bridge: quit the Bridge app or service and relaunch it.
- Try a different USB cable and port; avoid unpowered hubs.
- Check browser permissions: some browsers block WebUSB by default — allow it for the site you are using.
- Temporarily disable VPNs or firewall rules that may block localhost connections.
- Reinstall Bridge using the official installer; keep a copy of release notes to match versions.
Advanced notes for power users
Power users can run Bridge in verbose mode for debugging and inspect the local endpoint. For Linux users, check udev rules and group membership for USB access. Developers integrating with Trezor should prefer official client libraries and follow the WebUSB security model: always request minimal permissions and validate origin on the device when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need Trezor Bridge on mobile?
Most mobile setups use Bluetooth (Trezor Model T does not support Bluetooth) or dedicated mobile apps. Bridge is primarily a desktop helper. If you're on mobile, consult your device's docs to determine the correct connection method.
2. Is Bridge safe to run?
When downloaded from the official Trezor domain and kept up to date, Bridge is safe. It runs locally and does not send sensitive information off your computer. The most important risk remains social engineering — never reveal your recovery seed.
3. Browser can't find my device — what now?
Try a different cable/port, restart Bridge and the browser, check WebUSB permission settings, and make sure no other wallet apps are locking the connection. If the problem persists, consult the debug logs or reinstall Bridge.
4. How do I update Bridge safely?
Download updates only from the official site. Some distributions provide native package updates; use those when available. Avoid third-party mirrors unless explicitly trusted and signed.
5. Can Bridge access my seed or private keys?
No. Bridge only facilitates communications between browser and device. All signing and seed storage remains on the Trezor hardware. Approve every transaction on the device screen to keep control in your hands.
Final notes
Trezor Bridge is a small but essential component for a smooth desktop hardware wallet experience. Keep it up to date, use official downloads, and always validate actions on your device. If you require more tailored advice (advanced logs, developer integration), the developer-facing documentation on the official site provides command-line and API examples.