Trezor Bridge — Install, Configure & Secure Communication

Everything you need to know about Trezor Bridge: what it is, how to install it safely on desktop and laptop platforms, common issues and secure usage practices for connecting your Trezor hardware wallet to web wallets and companion apps.

What is Trezor Bridge?

Trezor Bridge is a small, device-communication helper program that enables your browser or desktop wallet to talk to a Trezor hardware wallet over USB (and in some setups, over supported mobile connections). It acts as an intermediary so web-based wallet interfaces can send commands and receive signed transactions from the physical device, without exposing private keys to the host computer or the internet.

Why you need it

Provides a stable, cross-platform communication layer between the Trezor device and wallet interfaces.
Ensures that signing requests are securely delivered to the hardware device and that device responses are relayed back to the application.
Simplifies browser integration when direct USB access is restricted or not available.

Install & setup (quick guide)

Download only from official sources: Always use the official vendor URL or your trusted repository. Avoid third-party mirrors and attachments in email.
Choose the correct package: Windows (.exe/.msi), macOS (.dmg or installer), and Linux packages are usually provided. For advanced Linux users, follow distro-specific instructions.
Run the installer: Follow the platform prompts. On some systems you may need administrator privileges to complete installation.
Allow browser/device access: When prompted by your browser or OS, permit the installed bridge to accept USB connections from your Trezor device and from trusted web wallet origins.
Verify operation: Open your official wallet interface (for example, the vendor-supplied suite or another supported wallet) and confirm the device is detected and responsive.

Security reminder: Verify checksums or digital signatures if they are provided. If any installer or update request looks unusual, stop and confirm with official support channels.

Common issues & fixes

Problems connecting can usually be resolved with a few standard checks.

Device not detected: Try a different USB cable or port, avoid USB hubs, and confirm the device display shows the Trezor logo.
Browser prompts blocked: Ensure the browser extension (if used) or the bridge service is allowed to run and that you accept the connection dialog when the wallet interface requests it.
Driver problems on Windows: Reinstall the Bridge and, if needed, accept optional driver installs. Use Device Manager to check for conflicts.
Permissions on macOS/Linux: Confirm the bridge has the necessary permissions; some systems require a restart after installation.
Firewall/antivirus interference: Temporarily disable or create an allowlist rule for the Bridge installer/service if connections are being blocked.

If issues persist, consult official support channels and include any relevant log outputs or error messages when asking for help.

Security best practices

Download only from official pages: Avoid third-party download sites and attachments. Manually type or verify the vendor URL before downloading.
Keep Bridge updated: Updates often include security and compatibility fixes. Install updates from official sources only.
Check digital signatures: When available, compare checksums or signatures to ensure the package has not been tampered with.
Use trusted wallet software: Pair Bridge with official or well-reviewed wallet interfaces. Do not paste your seed phrase into any app or website.
Limit privileges: Install with the minimum privileges required; avoid running as an elevated user for routine use unless prompted by the installer.

FAQ

Do I always need Bridge?: Most desktop browser integrations require Bridge. Some wallet integrations and modern browser APIs may offer alternative connection methods, but Bridge remains the recommended, broadly compatible option.
Can Bridge access my keys?: No. Trezor Bridge only passes encrypted commands between the wallet application and the physical device; private keys remain on the hardware wallet and never leave it.
Is Bridge open-source?: Elements of the Trezor software ecosystem are open-source. Consult the official vendor repositories for source code, licenses, and verification instructions.