Trezor Bridge — Secure Connection for Trezor Devices

A small, trustworthy desktop helper that securely links your Trezor hardware wallet to compatible apps and web interfaces. Simple to install, privacy-preserving, and built for reliable key management.

What is Trezor Bridge?

Trezor Bridge is a lightweight background application that establishes a secure, encrypted connection between your computer and your Trezor hardware wallet. It acts as a bridge for communication between web-based wallets (or desktop software) and the USB-connected device, enabling transaction signing, address verification, and firmware updates without exposing private keys. Rather than relying on browser-only USB access (which can be more fragile), Bridge provides consistent cross-platform compatibility and improved privacy by minimizing unnecessary browser permissions.

Key features

  • Secure USB communication: Encrypted, authenticated channels to your Trezor device.
  • Cross-platform: Works on Windows, macOS and Linux with a small installer.
  • Automatic device detection: When your Trezor is plugged in, Bridge detects and exposes a local API for authorized apps.
  • Privacy-forward: No private keys leave the device. Bridge simply forwards signed requests.
  • Lightweight & persistent: Minimal resource usage; runs only when needed.

How it works — short explanation

When you connect your Trezor device via USB, the Bridge service listens on a secure local endpoint. Trusted web applications can request user approval to access the device through that endpoint. All signatures and private key operations happen on the hardware itself — the host machine only receives the resulting signed payloads. This architecture reduces attack surface and lets users confidently manage cryptocurrencies, tokens, and other on-device secrets.

Install & get started

  1. Download the official Bridge installer from the Trezor website and run it. (Choose the version matching your OS.)
  2. Plug in your Trezor device. Allow the Bridge app to run (it may ask for OS permissions).
  3. Open a supported web wallet or the Trezor Suite: the application will detect your device and prompt for physical confirmation on the hardware display.
  4. Approve transactions on the device screen — never confirm transactions blindly on the host machine.

Tip: keep your Bridge and device firmware up to date to benefit from the latest stability and security fixes.

Troubleshooting highlights

  • If the device isn't detected, try reconnecting the USB cable and using a different port. Use the original Trezor cable when possible.
  • On macOS you may need to give the installer permission in System Settings → Privacy & Security.
  • Make sure only one wallet interface is trying to access the device at a time. Restarting Bridge can resolve stale connections.
  • If you see unexpected prompts or a device you don't recognize, disconnect and verify device identity using your recovery checklist.

Security & best practices

Bridge is designed to minimize privilege: it does not hold or transmit secrets, and it requires physical user confirmation for all critical actions. Treat your Trezor like a vault — keep the recovery seed offline, never enter it into software, and verify transaction details on the Trezor screen before approving. Only download Bridge from the official Trezor domain and verify checksums when available.

FAQ

Q: Is Bridge open source?
A: Yes — components and communication specifications are public so the community can review implementation and security.
Q: Do I need Bridge for mobile?
A: Mobile apps typically use different connection methods such as WebUSB or Bluetooth (for supported Trezor models). Bridge is primarily a desktop helper.
Download Bridge