What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight local connector application that allows your browser or desktop suite to communicate securely with your Trezor hardware wallet. Instead of relying on risky direct browser-to-device approaches, Bridge runs on your computer and creates a safe channel for signing transactions, checking balances, and managing device settings. This document explains core concepts, typical usage, security considerations, troubleshooting tips, and best practices when using Trezor Bridge.
Why Bridge matters
Trezor hardware wallets store private keys offline, which greatly reduces exposure to remote attacks. However, to create and sign transactions you still need a safe, short-lived path between your wallet and the application that prepares transactions. Trezor Bridge acts as that path. It minimizes attack surface by isolating communication into a local process and enabling permissioned, auditable interactions with the device. For everyday users this means simple, predictable connections; for power users it means stronger control over how your host machine and wallet interact.
How it works (simple)
When installed, Bridge runs quietly in the background and listens on a local port. Your browser-based wallet or Trezor Suite uses the Bridge API to request actions — for example, "get public key", "sign transaction", or "display address on device." The Trezor device asks you to confirm each sensitive action; only after explicit approval will the Bridge forward the signed response back to the requesting application. This separation ensures that even if a web page or desktop app is compromised, it cannot autonomously sign transactions without your consent on the physical device.
Installation and setup
Bridge installation is straightforward: download the official installer from the Trezor website and run it. It supports major operating systems and usually requires only a brief permission to install. After installation, open your browser or the Trezor Suite — the application will detect Bridge and show a connection status. If prompted, follow on-screen steps to pair your device. Use only official download sources and verify signatures where available.
Security considerations
Although Bridge reduces risk compared to unmediated connections, users should remain vigilant. Keep Bridge and Trezor firmware up to date to receive security fixes and improvements. Only install Bridge from official channels. On shared or public machines, avoid using your hardware wallet unless you control the environment. Finally, never share your recovery seed or enter it into any device other than the Trezor during setup — Bridge never asks for the recovery seed.
Troubleshooting common issues
If your device isn't detected, first verify that Bridge is running. Restarting the computer sometimes clears device locks or hung USB sessions. Try different USB ports or cables, and ensure the device displays the expected welcome screen. If the browser reports permission errors, check that local firewall or antivirus software isn't blocking Bridge's local port. Reinstalling Bridge from the official installer can resolve mismatched versions or corrupted installs.
Advanced tips
Advanced users can customize Bridge behavior by controlling which local applications are permitted to communicate with it and by reviewing network bindings. Consider running Trezor Suite inside a dedicated, minimal profile to reduce browser extension interference. For power users managing multiple wallets or accounts, maintain a clean device naming convention and keep a secure backup plan for your recovery seeds in a physically separate location.
Privacy and data handling
Trezor Bridge does not collect your private keys or recovery seed. It acts as a conduit for signed messages and device requests. Make sure you read the privacy notes accompanying the installer and Trezor Suite; most operations are local and ephemeral. Bridge will only transfer the exact data needed to complete a request, and the final authorization always happens on the Trezor device screen, ensuring that sensitive information stays under the user's control.
When to update
Install updates for Bridge and your Trezor device as soon as they are available from official sources. Updates often contain security patches or compatibility improvements with new browser versions. If an update addresses a critical vulnerability, the Trezor team will typically publish clear release notes; follow those instructions closely to ensure a safe and smooth upgrade path.
Final recommendations
Use Trezor Bridge as part of a broader security posture: maintain up-to-date software, keep your recovery seed offline and secure, choose trusted machines for transactions, and confirm all prompts shown on your physical device. Bridges and connectors are convenient, but they are only one layer in a defense-in-depth strategy that keeps your cryptocurrency safe over the long term.
Quick reference
- Install: Download from the official Trezor site and run the installer.
- Connect: Plug in your device and open Trezor Suite or compatible wallet.
- Confirm: Approve actions on the device screen before any signing occurs.
- Update: Keep Bridge and device firmware current.