Overview
Trezor Bridge is a small system component that acts as a trusted messenger between applications and your Trezor hardware wallet. It enables browser-based wallets and desktop applications to detect the device and exchange messages over USB without requiring web apps to handle low-level USB protocols directly. Bridge keeps the signing process on the hardware device, ensuring that private keys never transit your computer.
Why Bridge matters
Modern browsers impose security boundaries that make direct device access difficult. Bridge solves that by giving apps a simple, local API to communicate with Trezor devices. This improves reliability across platforms and browsers, streamlines the user experience, and reduces the chance of compatibility-related errors during critical operations like transaction signing.
Install & Setup
Download Bridge from the official Trezor website. Choose the installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) and follow the guided steps. After installation, restart your browser or application and connect your Trezor. If you encounter permission prompts (common on macOS), follow the official instructions to approve the component. Always verify download URLs and checksums when possible.
How it works (brief)
Bridge listens on a local endpoint and relays application requests to the device using USB HID or WebUSB. The device displays transaction details and requires explicit physical confirmation for signing. Bridge itself does not store keys or recovery phrases — its sole role is to forward messages between trusted software and the hardware wallet.
Security guidance
Trezor’s security model ensures that even if your computer is compromised, an attacker cannot sign transactions without physical access and confirmation on the device. Nevertheless, you should install Bridge only from official sources, keep it updated, and run trusted applications. Be vigilant: always verify the recipient address and amount on the device display before approving any transaction.
Common troubleshooting
If your device isn’t recognized, try these steps: make sure Bridge is running (check background processes), reconnect the USB cable, try a different port, and restart your browser. On some systems, security settings or USB permissions may block Bridge — consult the official troubleshooting docs. Reinstalling Bridge often clears stale configuration issues.
Maintenance & updates
Keep Bridge and connected apps up to date to benefit from security patches and compatibility fixes. Bridge updates are published on the official downloads page. If you operate in an enterprise environment, coordinate updates with your IT team and follow approved software deployment practices.
For developers
Developers can use Bridge’s API to enable hardware wallet support in web apps. The API abstracts USB interactions and allows apps to interact with devices in a platform-neutral way. Consult the developer documentation for integration examples, security guidelines, and test harnesses to validate your implementation against real devices and the emulator.
Best practices
Confirm addresses and amounts on your Trezor’s screen before approving.
Download Bridge and Suite only from trezor.io or verified app stores.
Updates fix security and compatibility issues — install them promptly.
Consider a dedicated machine for critical transactions.