What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a small, local software component that facilitates secure communication between Trezor hardware wallets and desktop applications such as Trezor Suite or other compatible wallets. It runs on your computer and translates USB traffic into a secure, platform-independent protocol that desktop applications can use to interact with the device.
Without Bridge, some browsers and operating systems may struggle to access the device reliably — Bridge fills that gap while providing a controlled interface so that only authorized applications can communicate with your Trezor device.
Why Bridge is safe and useful
- Local-only communication: Bridge runs locally; it does not transmit your sensitive data to external servers.
- Authorization model: Your Trezor device must be unlocked and physically confirmed for any sensitive operation.
- Cross-platform: Works on Windows, macOS and Linux, smoothing out differences between USB and browser APIs.
- Compatibility: Some wallet apps rely on Bridge to reliably enumerate and connect to Trezor devices.
Warning: Download Bridge from official sources only. Malicious versions could attempt to intercept communications. Always validate downloads from the manufacturer.
Installing Trezor Bridge — step by step
- Get the installer: Download the Bridge installer from the official Trezor website.
- Run the installer: On Windows, follow the installer prompts; on macOS, mount the DMG and run the package; on Linux, follow distribution-specific instructions.
- Grant permissions: If your OS prompts for permissions (USB access, system extension), accept only if you downloaded Bridge from the official source.
- Restart as necessary: Some systems require a relog or restart to load drivers and allow USB access.
After installation, Bridge typically launches automatically and listens on a local port. Desktop apps will detect its presence and use it to communicate with the device.
How Bridge communicates
Bridge creates a local HTTP endpoint that applications can talk to. It converts USB messages into a friendly API, handling enumeration and access control. The Trezor device still handles all sensitive cryptographic operations; Bridge’s role is routing and translation — it never stores your keys or seed.
Example flow:
1. Desktop app calls local Bridge API to list devices.
2. Bridge enumerates USB devices and reports Trezor.
3. App requests a transaction to be signed.
4. Unsigned transaction is sent to the device via Bridge.
5. Device displays details; user confirms on the device.
6. Device signs and returns the signed transaction via Bridge to the app.
Troubleshooting common connection problems
Even with Bridge installed, connections can fail for many mundane reasons. Below are practical steps to resolve most issues.
Problem: Device not detected
- Try another USB cable — make sure it supports data (some cables are power-only).
- Use a direct USB port on your computer rather than a hub.
- Ensure the device is unlocked (enter PIN on the Trezor) before the app tries to access it.
- Restart Bridge and the desktop application.
Problem: Permission or driver errors (Windows/macOS)
- On Windows, run the installer with administrative privileges and accept driver prompts.
- On macOS, you may need to allow a system extension under System Preferences → Security & Privacy.
- On some Linux distributions, add a udev rule or run the app with the required permissions; consult official docs for precise commands.
Problem: Browser asks for direct USB access
Some browsers can talk to hardware directly using WebUSB. If you prefer to use Bridge for consistent behavior, disable the browser’s direct device prompts and rely on the desktop application to handle communication.
Security considerations when using Bridge
Bridge simplifies connectivity, but you should remain cautious:
- Download only from official channels: Avoid third-party mirrors unless explicitly trusted.
- Run minimal background services: Close unnecessary apps that request USB device access while you use your hardware wallet.
- Verify signatures when possible: If a signature file is provided with the download, verify it using recommended tools to ensure authenticity.
Uninstalling or updating Bridge
Keep Bridge updated to benefit from bug fixes and improved compatibility. To remove Bridge, use your OS’s standard uninstall mechanism (Windows: Programs & Features; macOS: remove package and associated files; Linux: remove installed package). After uninstalling, desktop apps that rely on Bridge will no longer detect Trezor devices until Bridge is reinstalled or another supported transport is selected.
Alternatives and advanced usage
In some advanced setups you may prefer using WebUSB (from a browser) or a direct USB transport provided by other wallet applications. These can work without Bridge but are more dependent on browser and OS support. For headless or server environments, explore view-only wallets or HSM integrations designed for automation, but never expose your seed or keystore to an internet-connected server.
FAQ — Quick answers
Do I need Bridge to use my Trezor?
Not always — some browser-based flows use WebUSB and can work without Bridge. However, Bridge offers a more stable cross-platform experience for desktop applications.
Does Bridge know my recovery seed?
No. Bridge is only a local transport layer. The recovery seed stays on the device or in your secure backup — Bridge does not transmit or store seeds.
Is Bridge safe on public networks?
Bridge listens on a local interface and does not expose your device to the internet by default. Still, keep your machine secure and avoid running untrusted software while your wallet is connected.
Wrapping up
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight and practical solution that smooths the edge of hardware wallet integration with desktop applications. By translating USB communication into a consistent local API, it reduces friction and improves compatibility across operating systems. When installed from official sources and used with standard security hygiene, Bridge helps keep your interactions with a Trezor hardware wallet dependable and secure.