Trezor Bridge – The Secure Gateway to Your Hardware Wallet®

Lightweight, cross-platform bridge software that connects your Trezor to web and desktop wallets securely.
Overview

Trezor Bridge is the small, trusted application that sits between your Trezor hardware wallet and the applications you use to manage cryptocurrencies. It facilitates secure USB and WebUSB communication while preserving the device's air-gapped security model.

Why Trezor Bridge?

Trezor Bridge streamlines and secures the connection between your Trezor device and your browser or desktop application. Rather than exposing your wallet to broad USB device access, Bridge provides a controlled, authenticated channel with explicit permission prompts and minimal attack surface.

How it works

The application runs locally on your machine and listens on a localhost port. When you open a compatible web wallet or desktop app and connect your Trezor, the app sends commands to Bridge which then forwards those commands over a secure protocol to your physical device via USB. Only signed, user-authorized operations — such as signing transactions — leave the hardware wallet.

Quick flow

  1. Install Trezor Bridge on your machine.
  2. Open a supported web wallet or desktop app.
  3. Connect your Trezor and approve the action on-device.
  4. Bridge relays messages between the app and the hardware — the private keys never leave the Trezor.

Key features

Platform support

Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux with installers and simple updates.

Secure communication

Uses locally bound endpoints and origin checks to reduce the risk of malicious pages talking to your device.

User consent

Every operation that can affect funds or reveal sensitive data requires explicit confirmation on the Trezor device.

Small attack surface

Bridge is intentionally minimal — it only forwards messages and performs origin checks; core cryptography remains on the hardware.

Installation & setup

Installing Trezor Bridge is straightforward: download the official installer from Trezor's website, run the package for your OS, and follow the prompts. The Bridge service will run in the background and usually requires no additional configuration.

If a browser prompts to allow access to Trezor Bridge or USB devices, confirm only when you are on a trusted wallet site. Typical installation steps:

  • Download the latest Bridge release for your OS.
  • Install and run Bridge; it will bind to a localhost port.
  • Open your wallet app and connect the device.

Tip: Keep Bridge updated — updates can include compatibility improvements and security hardenings.

Security considerations

Trezor Bridge is designed to minimize risk, but you should follow good security practices:

  • Only install Bridge from the official Trezor website.
  • Verify installer signatures when possible.
  • Never connect your Trezor to untrusted machines.
  • Always confirm transaction details on the Trezor display.
  • Use a strong passphrase in addition to your PIN for added protection.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and quick solutions:

  • Device not detected: Reconnect the USB cable, try a different port, or restart Bridge.
  • Browser blocked access: Ensure the site is trusted and grant permission when prompted.
  • Old Bridge version: Download and install the latest release from the official site.
  • Conflicting software: Some virtualization or USB management tools may interfere — disable or reconfigure them.

FAQ

Is Bridge required to use my Trezor?

For many web and desktop applications, yes. Bridge provides a standardized, secure layer for communication. Some native clients may use direct drivers or WebUSB and not require Bridge.

Does Bridge access my private keys?

No. Private keys remain securely stored on the Trezor device. Bridge only forwards messages and enforces origin checks.

Can malicious websites talk to my Trezor?

Bridge reduces this risk via origin checks and local access controls. Always only approve requests you initiated and verify details on-device.