Description
At its core, Trezor Bridge is a minimal transport layer. Modern web browsers and some desktop environments restrict direct USB access for security and compatibility reasons. Bridge fills this gap by running locally and exposing a stable, well-defined endpoint that wallet interfaces can use to send and receive structured messages to a connected Trezor device. It does not hold or manage private keys; it merely relays requests and responses while the hardware device performs signing and verification.
Because Bridge operates locally and only during active sessions, it is intentionally small and focused. It is designed to be easy to install and unobtrusive, launching automatically when needed and exiting or remaining idle when not in use.
Key features
- USB mediation: Provides a consistent cross-platform interface for web and desktop apps to communicate with Trezor devices.
- Background service: Runs as a low-impact background process and starts on demand when a wallet app requests a connection.
- Secure relay: Only transfers protocol-level messages; private keys and signing occur exclusively on the hardware device.
- Cross-platform support: Available for major desktop operating systems with installers customized to each environment.
- Maintenance mode: Supports automatic or manual updates to maintain compatibility and address bugs or security fixes.
Why you might need Trezor Bridge
If you interact with Trezor devices using web-based wallet interfaces or certain native applications, Bridge is often required to enable detection and reliable communication. Without a local mediator, browser security restrictions may prevent apps from accessing USB devices in a predictable way. Bridge ensures that the user experience is smooth across different browsers and operating systems, reduces connection errors, and standardizes how apps communicate with the hardware.
Download and installation overview
The installation process is straightforward: choose the installer appropriate for your operating system, run the installer with administrative privileges when prompted, and follow on-screen instructions. After installation, Bridge typically runs automatically and may show a small icon in the system tray or menu bar. Once running, compatible wallet applications should detect your connected Trezor device and present the standard unlock and confirmation flows on the hardware screen.
Important note: obtain installation packages only from trusted distribution sources and verify integrity indicators (checksums or signatures) when they are provided to reduce the risk of tampered binaries.
Security considerations
Bridge is designed to have a small trust surface. It never has access to private keys, recovery seeds, or any long-term wallet data. Its role is message relay only. Nevertheless, because it mediates USB access at the system level, it should be treated like any other system helper: install it on a trusted, up-to-date machine, apply updates promptly, and keep an eye on security advisories. The hardware device remains the ultimate point of confirmation — any transaction must be reviewed and approved on the device display.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Device not detected: Ensure Bridge is running, try reconnecting the USB cable, try a different cable or port, and make sure the device is powered on.
- Permission errors: Some operating systems require explicit USB permissions; reinstall Bridge with appropriate privileges or adjust OS-level permissions if necessary.
- Conflicting software: Other USB middleware or security tools can interfere; disabling or updating such software and rebooting often resolves conflicts.
- Outdated Bridge: If connection problems persist, update Bridge to the latest official release to restore compatibility.
Best practices
- Install Bridge only from official distribution channels and verify any provided integrity checks.
- Keep both Bridge and your hardware device firmware up to date to maintain compatibility and security.
- Use a secure, dedicated computer for wallet interactions when possible; avoid public or untrusted machines.
- Always verify recipient addresses and transaction amounts on the Trezor device display before approving.
- Uninstall Bridge on machines where you no longer use a Trezor to reduce background services and minimize attack surface.
Quick start checklist
- Confirm you have your Trezor device and a suitable USB cable.
- Download and install the Bridge package for your operating system from a trusted source.
- Launch Bridge and start your preferred Trezor-compatible wallet interface.
- Connect and unlock your hardware device and confirm any actions on-device.
- Perform a small test transaction to validate communication before sending larger amounts.