Trezor Bridge® — Connect Your Trezor to Web Browsers
Trezor Bridge is the lightweight background application that allows your Trezor hardware wallet to communicate securely with web browsers and web apps. Whether you're using Trezor Suite, accessing wallets through browser-based interfaces, or interacting with decentralized applications, Trezor Bridge (sometimes written as Trezor/Bridge or trezor bridge) is the piece that makes the connection simple and reliable.
What is Trezor Bridge?
At its core, Trezor Bridge is a small helper program installed on your computer that enables the secure, encrypted channel between your Trezor device and a browser. Older methods relied on USB web extensions, but the Bridge modernizes the connection by running as a local service that browsers contact through HTTP on localhost. This approach reduces compatibility problems, improves security, and eliminates the need for browser-specific plugins.
Why you need Trezor Bridge
Without Trezor Bridge, many browser-based wallet interfaces cannot find or communicate with your Trezor device. Bridge handles USB permissioning, device detection, and message routing so you can:
Sign transactions securely with your hardware wallet.
Manage accounts and view balances safely in a browser UI.
Use web-based dApps while keeping your private keys offline.
How to install and start using Trezor Bridge
Installation is straightforward:
Download the Bridge installer from Trezor’s official website (choose the correct installer for Windows, macOS, or Linux).
Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions — it will install a small background service.
Connect your Trezor device by USB. Unlock the device if required and confirm any prompts shown on the Trezor screen.
Open the Trezor web app or Trezor Suite in your browser — the site will detect the running Bridge and request access to your device.
Note: modern browsers may require you to allow the site to access the local Bridge service the first time it connects. Grant the prompt for a smooth first-time experience.
Troubleshooting common issues
If your browser doesn't detect the device:
Confirm that Bridge is running: look for an icon in the system tray (Windows) or verify the process in Activity Monitor / System Monitor.
Try a different USB cable or port — some cables are power-only and don’t carry data.
Ensure your browser isn’t blocking localhost connections (corporate networks or security software sometimes do).
Restart the Bridge service and the browser if detection fails.
Security and privacy considerations
Trezor Bridge is designed to minimize the attack surface: it only accepts connections from local web apps, and the device itself requires physical confirmation for any operation that exposes sensitive data or signs transactions. Still, follow basic safety practices:
Always download Bridge from the official Trezor domain to avoid trojanized installers.
Keep your operating system and browser updated.
Never enter your recovery seed into a browser or computer — the seed must remain offline and stored securely.
Compatibility and updates
Trezor Bridge supports the major desktop operating systems and the most common modern browsers. Check the official download page periodically — updates may include bug fixes, new device support, and security patches. When an update is available, install it promptly to keep your setup secure.
Quick recap: Trezor Bridge (aka Trezor/Bridge, trezor bridge) is the local helper that connects your hardware wallet to browser-based wallet apps. Install, allow browser permissions, and always confirm actions on your physical Trezor device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between Trezor Bridge and Trezor Suite?
Trezor Bridge is a local service that enables browser-to-device communication. Trezor Suite is a desktop application (and web interface) that provides a full wallet management experience. The Suite may use Bridge for browser integrations, but Bridge itself is only the connection layer.
2. Is Trezor Bridge safe to install?
Yes — when downloaded from the official Trezor website. Bridge doesn't expose your private keys; signing and secret material remain on the hardware device, which requires physical confirmation for sensitive actions.
3. Do I need Bridge for all browsers?
Bridge works with most modern desktop browsers. Some browser-based wallet tools may prefer or require Bridge to handle USB access. Mobile browsers typically do not use Bridge; mobile integrations usually rely on other connection methods (like mobile apps or WebUSB support).
4. My browser can't find my Trezor. What should I try first?
First try a different USB cable or port, ensure Bridge is running, and restart the browser. If you’re on Windows, try running the installer again or check antivirus settings that might block localhost connections.
5. How often should I update Trezor Bridge?
Install updates as they are released. Updates can include important security patches and device compatibility improvements. If you rely on browser-based wallet operations, staying current is recommended.