What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight application designed to act as a secure communication channel between your Trezor hardware wallet and your computer's web browser. It enables you to safely manage, send, receive, and sign cryptocurrency transactions using your hardware wallet without compromising security.
Historically, Trezor relied on browser extensions to enable this interaction. However, with evolving browser security models and to improve user experience and security, Trezor Bridge replaces extensions by providing native communication through a small background application.
The Bridge supports Windows, macOS, and Linux, working smoothly with popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave.
Installing Trezor Bridge
To use your Trezor device with the latest apps and web interfaces, you need to install Trezor Bridge on your computer. Follow these steps:
- Download the Installer: Head to the official Trezor Start page and download the latest Trezor Bridge installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
- Run the Installer: Open the downloaded file and follow the installation wizard instructions to complete setup.
- Restart Your Browser: After installation finishes, close all browser windows and relaunch your preferred browser to ensure it detects the Bridge application.
- Connect Your Trezor: Plug your Trezor hardware wallet into a USB port on your computer. The browser and Bridge will now communicate to enable wallet functions.
How Trezor Bridge Works
Trezor Bridge runs as a background process on your computer, listening for communication requests from your browser. When you open a Trezor-compatible website or wallet interface, your browser sends requests to the Bridge, which then forwards commands to your physical Trezor device via USB.
The device processes these commands — such as signing transactions, displaying wallet information, or confirming operations — and sends secure responses back through the Bridge to the browser.
- Isolates Hardware Communication: Keeps sensitive operations off the browser and isolated on your device.
- Eliminates Need for Browser Extensions: Simplifies setup while improving security.
- Ensures Secure Transaction Signing: Your private keys never leave the Trezor device.
- Compatible Across Platforms and Browsers: Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and major browsers.
Security Tips for Using Trezor Bridge
- Always Download from Official Sources: Only download Trezor Bridge from trezor.io to avoid counterfeit software.
- Keep Your Software Updated: Regularly update Trezor Bridge, your Trezor firmware, and your browser for the latest security patches.
- Verify URLs: Always confirm you’re visiting legitimate cryptocurrency sites before connecting your wallet.
- Use Strong Device PIN: Set a PIN code on your Trezor device to protect against physical access.
- Never Share Your Recovery Seed: Your 24-word recovery seed is private. Never enter it into a computer or website.
- Disconnect When Not in Use: Physically unplug your Trezor device when you’re finished managing your crypto assets.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you experience connection problems or Bridge is not detected, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Restart the Bridge Service: Quit the Bridge application and relaunch it.
- Use a Different USB Cable or Port: Faulty cables or USB hubs can cause issues.
- Restart Your Computer and Browser: A simple reboot often resolves conflicts.
- Check for Software Updates: Ensure Trezor Bridge, wallet apps, and firmware are up to date.
- Disable Conflicting Extensions: Browser extensions might interfere; try disabling them temporarily.
- Clear Browser Cache: Sometimes cached data causes problems—clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
- Consult Official Support: Visit Trezor Support for additional help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Trezor Bridge to use my Trezor device?
Yes. Trezor Bridge is essential software that allows your computer’s browser to communicate securely with your Trezor hardware wallet.
Is Trezor Bridge safe?
Absolutely. Trezor Bridge is developed by SatoshiLabs with security in mind. It only facilitates communication between your device and computer without exposing private keys or sensitive information.
Can I use Trezor Bridge on Linux?
Yes. Trezor Bridge supports all major desktop platforms including Linux distributions, macOS, and Windows.
What browsers support Trezor Bridge?
Most modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave fully support Trezor Bridge.
What if my browser does not detect Trezor Bridge?
Make sure Trezor Bridge is installed and running. Restart your browser and computer if necessary. If issues persist, reinstall the Bridge from the official site.
Does Trezor Bridge store my cryptocurrency or private keys?
No. All private keys remain securely on your hardware wallet. Trezor Bridge only acts as a communication layer and never stores sensitive data.