Description
Trezor Bridge is a small background application that runs on your computer and acts as a mediator between the Trezor hardware device and the host applications that manage cryptocurrency. Because modern browsers restrict direct USB access for security and compatibility reasons, Bridge provides a trusted local endpoint that enables reliable communication while keeping sensitive signing operations on the hardware device itself.
The Bridge is intentionally minimal: it does not store private keys, it only relays structured messages between the device and the application, and it enforces a simple permission model so that only authorized local apps can interact with your Trezor once you approve the connection on the hardware device.
Key features
- USB mediation: Enables web and desktop apps to communicate with the Trezor device over USB in a consistent and cross-platform manner.
- Background service: Runs unobtrusively in the background and launches on demand when a compatible app attempts to connect.
- Compatibility: Works with major desktop operating systems and supports the official Suite as well as authorized third-party integrations.
- Secure relay: Transfers only protocol-level messages; all cryptographic signing remains inside the hardware device.
- Automatic updates: When available, Bridge can be updated to maintain compatibility and patch issues (follow official update guidance).
Why you might need Bridge
If you use web-based wallet interfaces or certain desktop applications that rely on a local communication layer, Trezor Bridge is often required to detect and interact with the hardware device. It fills the gap where browser APIs are limited or fragmented across platforms, ensuring a smoother, more consistent experience across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Download & installation (overview)
- Choose the Bridge installer appropriate for your operating system.
- Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts to complete installation; administrative privileges may be required.
- After installation, Bridge typically runs as a background process and may place an icon in your system tray or menu bar.
- Launch your preferred Trezor-compatible app; it should now detect your connected Trezor device and prompt you to proceed with authentication on the device screen.
Important: Always obtain installation packages from official sources and verify any checksums or integrity indicators provided by the vendor when available. Avoid installing Bridge from third-party mirrors or untrusted sources to reduce risk of tampered binaries.
Security considerations
Trezor Bridge is designed with a minimal trust surface. It does not manage private keys or persist wallet data. However, because it mediates USB access, follow standard security hygiene: use a trusted computer, keep your operating system updated, and install Bridge only from official distribution channels. Treat Bridge like any other system-level helper — keep it updated and monitor for notices about security fixes.
Even with Bridge installed, the Trezor device itself remains the gatekeeper: any transaction must be explicitly reviewed and confirmed on the device screen. If a webpage or app requests actions you did not initiate, disconnect the device and investigate.
Troubleshooting common issues
- No device detected: Confirm Bridge is running, try reconnecting the USB cable, try a different cable or USB port, and ensure the Trezor device is powered on.
- Permission denied: Some operating systems require explicit permissions for USB access; ensure Bridge was installed with the correct privileges and that no security software is blocking it.
- Conflicting software: Rarely, other USB middleware or security tools can interfere; temporarily disabling such tools or rebooting may resolve detection problems.
- Outdated Bridge: If you experience compatibility errors, update Bridge to the latest official release following vendor guidance.
Best practices
- Download Bridge installers only from official distribution points and verify integrity when checksums are provided.
- Keep both Bridge and your Trezor device firmware up to date to ensure compatibility and security.
- Use a dedicated, secure computer for wallet management when possible; avoid public or untrusted machines.
- Always verify transaction details on the Trezor device before approving; Bridge cannot alter what you confirm on-device.
- Uninstall Bridge if you no longer use Trezor on that machine to minimize background services running on your system.
Quick start checklist
- Confirm you have your Trezor device and a suitable USB cable.
- Download and install the appropriate Bridge package for your OS from an official source.
- Launch Bridge (it may run automatically) and open your Trezor-compatible app.
- Connect and unlock your device with your PIN and confirm actions on-device as required.
- Perform a small test transaction to verify communication before transferring larger amounts.