What is Trezor Bridge®?
Trezor Bridge® is a small utility that runs on your computer and allows Trezor hardware wallets to communicate with web browsers using secure protocols. It bridges the communication between your USB-connected Trezor device and web-based wallet interfaces or integrated browser DApps. If you use a Trezor device with modern websites, Bridge makes the interaction smooth and secure.
Official download: Always get Trezor Bridge directly from the official source: https://trezor.io/bridge/
Why use Bridge instead of browser extensions?
Historically, browser extensions were used to access hardware wallets. Trezor Bridge removes the need for an extension and instead provides a local, secure communication layer. This reduces attack surface from malicious extensions while letting websites interact with devices through the standard WebUSB or HTTP-to-WebSocket proxy Bridge provides.
How to install Trezor Bridge®
Installing Bridge is straightforward. Below is a step-by-step summary that will work on Windows, macOS, and many Linux distributions.
Step-by-step installation
- Visit the official Bridge page: https://trezor.io/bridge/ — download the installer for your OS.
- Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. On macOS you may need to allow the app in System Preferences > Security & Privacy.
- After installation, connect your Trezor device via USB. A Bridge icon or background process usually appears in your system tray.
- Open your web wallet (e.g., Trezor Suite web interface or supported third-party DApps). The site will detect Bridge and prompt to connect your device.
Command-line (Linux example):
sudo apt install ./trezor-bridge-version.deb
Download link again for convenience: https://trezor.io/bridge/
Browser compatibility
Trezor Bridge supports major browsers that allow WebUSB or equivalent communication. If you find a browser connection is not possible, try an alternative (Chrome, Edge, Brave) or enable the WebUSB flag if available. For many users, Bridge works best with Chromium-based browsers.
Using Trezor Bridge with web wallets
Once installed, Bridge runs in the background and listens for HTTPS sites that request Trezor device access. Typical flow:
Typical connection flow
- Open a compatible website (for example, a wallet or DApp).
- When the site requests a hardware wallet connection, it triggers Bridge to enumerate attached Trezor devices.
- Approve the connection on your Trezor device screen (physically confirm).
- Sign transactions directly on the device — the private keys never leave the hardware.
Official Bridge information: https://trezor.io/bridge/
Power-user tips
- Keep both Bridge and your device firmware updated. Updates often include security improvements and compatibility fixes.
- If a site can’t see your Trezor, ensure Bridge is running and your USB cable is data-capable (not a charge-only cable).
- For advanced debugging, Bridge logs are available in the application data folder on your OS — consult the official documentation for paths and log options.
Security & privacy considerations
Bridge acts as a local relay. It does not store your private keys and does not transmit them to the internet. However, secure usage depends on good practices.
Best practices
- Always download Bridge from the official source: https://trezor.io/bridge/
- Verify checksums or signatures if the official page provides them.
- Keep your operating system, browser, and Bridge updated.
- Use a dedicated hardware wallet for larger holdings and a separate device for day-to-day minimal balances.
- Never share your recovery seed — Bridge will never ask for it.
Threat model brief
Bridge reduces the need for browser extensions (which can be hijacked), but browser-based attacks still exist. The critical line of defense is the Trezor device itself: transaction details are displayed on-screen and must be physically confirmed. Treat your computer as potentially compromised and rely on device confirmations for final safety.
Troubleshooting common issues
Bridge not detected by browser
- Confirm Bridge is installed and running (system tray or background process).
- Try a different USB port and cable.
- Restart your browser after installation.
- Temporarily disable other wallet-related extensions that may interfere.
Device connected but not responsive
Try reconnecting the device, check for firmware updates, or reboot the machine. If issues persist, consult the official support resources: https://trezor.io/bridge/
Advanced fix: clearing Bridge cache
On some systems you may clear cached Bridge settings by deleting the Bridge app data folder (consult docs for exact paths and backup instructions first).
FAQ — quick answers
Do I need Bridge to use my Trezor?
If you want to connect your Trezor to web wallets in the browser, yes — Bridge is the recommended method. Alternatively, you can use Trezor Suite desktop app which may not require Bridge depending on configuration.
Is Bridge safe?
Yes, when obtained from the official source and used with best practices. Bridge does not access your private keys nor your recovery seed. Always confirm transactions on the device screen.
Where can I download Bridge?
Direct official link (repeated for convenience): https://trezor.io/bridge/
Conclusion — why Bridge matters
Trezor Bridge® is the lightweight, secure connector that keeps the hardware wallet model intact while enabling modern web experiences. It reduces reliance on browser extensions, supports clear device confirmation flows, and makes it easier to use Trezor with many DApps and web wallets.
Download and learn more at the official Bridge page: https://trezor.io/bridge/
Quick checklist before you connect
- Install Bridge from the official URL: https://trezor.io/bridge/
- Use a data-capable USB cable and a trusted machine.
- Confirm every transaction on your Trezor device.
Final note
Hardware wallets combined with secure local tooling like Trezor Bridge® are a powerful way to hold and use crypto safely. The most important safety step is: never share your recovery seed and always verify details on your device.