Trezor Bridge — Secure Your Hardware Wallet®

Why Bridge is Required

Modern browsers and operating systems restrict low-level USB access for security reasons. Trezor Bridge provides a controlled, secure channel so client applications can interact with the device without requiring fragile browser flags or platform-specific drivers. This reduces setup friction and makes web flows more robust.

Supported Platforms & Browser Notes

How Bridge Works — Technical Overview

Bridge runs as a local background service and listens on a loopback interface. Client applications query Bridge to discover connected Trezor devices and then forward commands. Bridge enforces origin checks for web flows and ensures only authorized clients can initiate communication. Under no circumstances does Bridge expose or read your recovery seed — cryptographic signing remains inside the device.

Download & Installation

Download Bridge only from the official Trezor site. Follow these steps for a smooth install:

1. Visit the official Bridge download page (use the canonical site URL).
2. Choose the installer for your operating system and download the file.
3. Run the installer and follow prompts. On macOS allow the app in System Preferences if Gatekeeper blocks it.
4. After installation, Bridge runs in the background. Some OS's show a tray/menu icon.

Tip: Keep Bridge updated — newer versions improve browser compatibility and fix edge cases.

Verifying the Installer (Recommended)

To ensure the installer hasn't been tampered with, verify checksums or signatures when available:

1. On the official download page, look for an SHA256 checksum or PGP signature next to the installer link.
2. Compute the checksum locally (for example, shasum -a 256 filename) and compare it to the published value.
3. If a PGP signature is provided, verify it with the official Trezor public key.

If values differ, delete the file and re-download from the official source.

Security Model & Privacy

Bridge is a minimal, security-first component. Key properties include:

• No seed exposure: Bridge never accesses or stores your recovery seed or private keys.
• Permissioned access: Only clients that request permission can interact with the device.
• Local-only: By default Bridge listens on localhost and isn’t exposed to networks.
• Minimal telemetry: Only if you opt in; consult the privacy policy for details.

Using Bridge with Trezor Suite and Web Apps

Typical connection flow:

1. Open Trezor Suite or a supported web app and choose to connect your device.
2. Bridge enumerates devices and authorizes the client origin.
3. Confirm prompts on your Trezor device and verify transaction details before approving.

Always confirm the origin (URL or app name) requesting access and only grant permissions to trusted services.

Troubleshooting Common Bridge Issues

Device not detected

Steps to try:

• Restart Bridge or reboot your computer.
• Use a different USB cable or port and avoid hubs when possible.
• Ensure the device is powered on and unlocked (enter PIN if required).
• On Linux, install provided udev rules and check permissions.

Bridge won’t start

Check OS-level security (Gatekeeper/SmartScreen). Reinstall Bridge and allow permissions during the process. Review Bridge log files for diagnostics.

Browser can’t access device

Try a Chromium-based browser or update to the latest supported browser. Some browsers need explicit flags for WebUSB; using the desktop Suite often avoids such inconsistencies.

Advanced & Developer Notes

Developers building integrations should use the official SDKs and follow these guidelines:

• Respect user consent flows and request explicit permission before device access.
• Keep cryptographic operations on the device; never export private keys.
• Use maintained libraries from the Trezor organization to avoid low-level USB pitfalls.

For testing, Trezor provides simulators and developer documentation to validate behavior across environments.

Updating or Removing Bridge

To update Bridge, download the latest installer from the official site and run it — the installer will replace the prior version. To remove Bridge, use your OS’s standard uninstall tools and restart. Confirm no Bridge processes are left running after uninstall.

Best Practices & Recommendations

• Download Bridge only from the official Trezor website.
• Keep Bridge and Trezor firmware up to date.
• Use data-capable USB cables and connect directly to the computer rather than through hubs.
• Review and revoke browser-origin permissions you no longer need.
• Consider using a dedicated machine for high-value transactions to reduce exposure to general-purpose malware.

FAQ

Do I need Bridge to use my Trezor?

Bridge is recommended for a smoother desktop and web experience. Some browsers can use WebUSB directly, but Bridge generally improves compatibility and reliability across platforms.

Is Bridge safe?

Yes — Bridge is minimal and local-only. It doesn’t expose seeds or private keys. Always download it from the official domain and verify checksums when possible.

What data does Bridge collect?

Bridge collects minimal diagnostic data only if you opt in. Check the privacy documentation for specifics and how to disable telemetry.