What Is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight background application developed by SatoshiLabs that enables
secure and seamless communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and web browser or
compatible applications. It replaces deprecated browser extensions and ensures modern
compatibility across platforms. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Download & Install
Important: Always download Trezor Bridge from the official Trezor site
(e.g. trezor.io/trezor-bridge or trezor.io/start) to avoid
malicious impostors. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Go to the official download page: choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Download the installer for your OS (e.g. .exe, .pkg, or .deb) :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions
- Restart your browser (or system) if necessary; Bridge runs in background
In many recent versions, Trezor Suite (desktop) includes Bridge functionality internally,
making a separate Bridge installation optional or even deprecated in some setups. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Download Trezor Bridge
How Does Trezor Bridge Work?
-
When you plug in your Trezor device via USB, Bridge detects it via the system’s USB interface. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
-
Bridge runs a small local service (HTTP or WebSocket) that listens to browser requests from
compatible web apps (like
suite.trezor.io) :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
-
The browser sends data (e.g. “get account”, “prepare transaction”) to Bridge; Bridge passes
the commands to the hardware wallet. Only signed data (not private keys) is returned. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
-
All sensitive operations (e.g. signing, passphrase entry) remain on the hardware device; Bridge
only mediates communication. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
-
Bridge monitors and handles updates, device detection, and ensures compatibility across browsers. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Why Use Trezor Bridge?
- Enhanced Security: Private keys never leave the hardware device; all communication is encrypted. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Browser Compatibility: Works with Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, etc. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Cross‑Platform: Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Seamless UX: Run in background, no manual reconnection needed. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Open Source & Audited: Bridge is open for community review. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- Eliminates Browser Extension Risks: Avoids outdated or vulnerable browser plugin methods. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Security & Risks to Watch For
Trezor Bridge is designed with security as a priority. Bridge does **not** store your recovery seed,
nor does it ever access your private keys. All signing actions must be manually confirmed on your
Trezor hardware device. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
However, there is risk in downloading fake or compromised versions of “Trezor Bridge” from
unofficial sources. Always verify the domain (trezor.io) and digital signatures if provided. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Note: The standalone version of Trezor Bridge is **deprecated** in some setups, and in future
versions may conflict with integrated Bridge functionality in Trezor Suite. If you have
an older standalone Bridge installed, consider uninstalling it. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Troubleshooting Tips
If Bridge isn’t working or your device is not detected, try the following:
- Check whether the Bridge service is running (look for processes like
trezord) :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
- Restart the Bridge or reboot your computer :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- Ensure you're using the correct version for your OS :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
- Switch USB ports or cables; avoid hubs if possible
- Clear browser cache or restart browser
- If using Trezor Suite (desktop), try letting it handle connectivity without separate Bridge
- If conflict arises, uninstall the outdated standalone Bridge version :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
Community users have faced occasional issues like “Bridge not running” errors, requiring reinstallation,
service stopping, or switching browsers. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}