Trezor Bridge® — Trusted Interface for Crypto Hardware Wallets

A secure, lightweight local service that enables modern web browsers to interact safely with your Trezor hardware wallet. This guide focuses on practical setup, security practices, developer integration, and troubleshooting.

Introduction

Trezor Bridge is a small background application that acts as a trusted local proxy between your web browser and your Trezor hardware device. It is designed to make browser-based wallet experiences safe and seamless without requiring browser extensions. Bridge handles device discovery, origin validation, and request forwarding while ensuring that sensitive cryptographic operations remain on the hardware.

Core principles

01

Security-first design

Bridge never accesses or stores private keys. It strictly forwards approved requests to the device, which performs all cryptographic operations. Origin checks and user confirmation dialogs prevent unauthorized sites from accessing the device silently.

02

Simplicity

Bridge removes friction by providing a consistent API across browsers and platforms. Users install a single lightweight application instead of managing plugins or dealing with inconsistent native USB behavior across browsers.

03

Compatibility

Bridge supports Windows, macOS, and Linux and works with modern browsers like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and others. It integrates with web wallets and dApps through the Trezor Connect libraries.

Key features

  • Origin whitelisting: only approved web pages can send device requests.
  • Lightweight service: minimal CPU and memory usage with optional auto-start.
  • Developer diagnostics: optional debug logs and connection info for easier troubleshooting.
  • Automatic update option: keep Bridge secure with unobtrusive updates.
  • Multi-device support: connect and manage multiple Trezor devices when needed.

Installation & quick start

Security note: Always obtain installers and checksums from the official Trezor website. If you're in a high-risk environment, verify digital signatures before installing.

  1. Download the Bridge installer for your OS from the official source.
  2. Run the installer and follow the prompts. Administrator privileges may be required on some systems.
  3. Launch your browser and open the web wallet or dApp you want to use. Connect your Trezor device using a data-capable USB cable.
  4. Authorize the connection using the browser prompt and confirm the action on your device when requested.
// macOS: start Bridge manually if it doesn't auto-launch
open /Applications/Trezor\ Bridge.app

// Linux: reload udev rules after installing to allow non-root access
sudo udevadm control --reload-rules && sudo udevadm trigger

Troubleshooting common issues

Most connection problems stem from cables, ports, browser prompts, or permission issues. Try these quick steps:

  • Check your cable: Use a known data-capable cable. Many charging-only cables won't transmit data.
  • Swap ports: Avoid USB hubs; use a direct USB port on your machine.
  • Restart Bridge: Quit the service and relaunch it. On Windows, re-run the installer with admin rights if needed.
  • Disable extensions: Privacy-focused extensions can block the browser prompt. Temporarily disable them when connecting.
  • Linux users: Ensure udev rules were installed and that you've reloaded the rules or logged out and back in.

Advanced: troubleshooting logs

If problems persist, enable debug mode in Bridge (developer option) to capture connection logs. Share logs with official support if asked — but never send your recovery seed or PIN.

Security best practices

  • Never disclose your recovery seed or PIN. Trezor support will not request these.
  • Only authorize sites you trust and periodically revoke unused permissions.
  • Keep the Bridge app, your Trezor device firmware, OS, and browser up to date.
  • Prefer the official desktop Trezor Suite for intensive device management tasks; Bridge is intended for web-based workflows.

Developer integration

Web developers should use the Trezor Connect SDK to integrate hardware wallet functionality. Follow these recommendations:

  • Validate host origin and implement strict Content Security Policies.
  • Gracefully handle multiple devices and user cancellations.
  • Surface clear authorization prompts and explain what users are signing before requesting a signature.
// Example: check for TrezorConnect and request device features
if (window.TrezorConnect) {
  TrezorConnect.getFeatures().then(res => console.log(res));
}

FAQ

Do I need Bridge for Trezor Suite?
No. The desktop Trezor Suite talks to devices directly. Bridge is optional and primarily useful for browser-based wallets and dApps.
Can Bridge run silently in the background?
Yes — Bridge can run as a background service for fast connections. If you prefer, disable auto-start and launch it only when necessary.
Will a website ever get my private keys via Bridge?
No. Private keys remain on the hardware device. Bridge only forwards approved commands so the device can perform signing locally.

Release & update policy

Trezor releases periodic Bridge updates to address compatibility, performance, and security. Enabling automatic updates ensures you receive fixes quickly, but manual updates are also supported — check release notes on the official site for details.

© Trezor. This guide is provided for informational purposes. For official downloads, firmware updates, and security advisories, always consult the Trezor website and support channels.