Trezor Bridge is a background utility that overcomes a fundamental security limitation of web browsers: they are generally not permitted to access USB ports directly. Direct USB access is restricted to prevent malicious websites from probing and exploiting connected hardware.
The Bridge creates a dedicated, encrypted communication layer between your computer and the Trezor device.
Device Detection and Initialization: When you plug in your Trezor device, the Bridge—running silently in the background on your computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux)—automatically detects it.
Local Server: The Bridge operates a local web server (using HTTP or WebSocket) on your computer. This local server is the secure endpoint that web applications, like Trezor Suite Web or compatible third-party wallets, can communicate with.
Encrypted Transfer: When you initiate an action in your web browser (e.g., preparing a transaction), the request is sent to the local Bridge server. The Bridge then securely and consistently passes this request to the connected Trezor device.
Offline Signing: Crucially, your private keys never leave the Trezor device. The Trezor signs the transaction internally and displays the details on its trusted screen for your physical verification.
Secure Return: Only the signed, non-sensitive data is passed back to the web browser via the Trezor Bridge, allowing the application to broadcast the verified transaction to the blockchain.
This mechanism ensures a seamless and highly secure user experience, bypassing platform-specific compatibility issues and maintaining the integrity of your cold storage device.
Trezor Bridge is not typically installed as a standalone program anymore; it is now an integrated component of the Trezor Suite desktop application. By installing Trezor Suite, you automatically get the necessary Bridge components to ensure device connectivity, both for the desktop app and for browser-based access (like Trezor Suite Web).
Windows: Windows 10 or later
macOS: macOS 10.11 or later
Linux: Most modern distributions (Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, etc.)
Always download software only from the official Trezor website to prevent phishing and malware risks.
Download Trezor Suite: Navigate to the official Trezor Suite download page (see Official Links below) and select the installer for your operating system.
Run the Installer: Double-click the downloaded file and follow the on-screen prompts. You may need administrative privileges to complete the installation.
Installation Confirmation: The Bridge component installs alongside Trezor Suite. Once the installation is finished, the Bridge service will run automatically in the background every time your computer starts up.
Connect and Use: Plug in your Trezor device. Now, whether you launch the desktop application or navigate to the Trezor Suite web interface, your browser should be able to instantly detect and communicate with your Trezor.
While the Bridge is designed for reliability, connection issues can sometimes occur. Here are steps to resolve common problems:
IssuePotential Cause(s)Recommended Solution(s)"Bridge Not Running" or "Device Not Detected"Bridge service not started, bad USB connection.1. Restart your computer to ensure the Bridge service launches. 2. Try a different USB cable (ensure it supports data transfer, not just charging). 3. Try a different USB port (ideally a direct port, not a hub).Browser Prompts to Install BridgeOutdated software, browser cache issue.1. Ensure Trezor Suite/Bridge is updated to the latest version. 2. Clear your browser's cache and restart the browser. 3. Try a supported browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave).Windows Driver IssuesMissing or incorrect drivers for the Trezor device.On Windows, you might need to manually install or update the USB drivers using a tool like Zadig (consult the official Trezor support site for detailed instructions).Firewall or Antivirus BlockingSecurity software is blocking the local communication port.Temporarily disable your VPN/Firewall/Antivirus and try connecting. If it works, whitelist the Trezor Suite application to prevent future blocks.
No. Trezor Bridge functionality is now fully integrated into the Trezor Suite desktop application. Installing Trezor Suite ensures you have the Bridge component running in the background for both desktop and web-based wallet access.
Yes. Trezor Bridge is an official, secure application developed by Trezor. Its purpose is to create an encrypted and isolated path for communication. The most critical security measure remains that your private keys never leave the Trezor device—all sensitive operations (like signing) happen internally on the hardware.
Yes, the underlying communication layer (which evolved from the original standalone Bridge) is still necessary for the desktop app to securely talk to your physical Trezor device. It is included when you install Trezor Suite.
If the necessary Bridge service is not running, your web browser or the Trezor Suite web application will not be able to detect or communicate with your connected Trezor device. You will receive an error message prompting you to install it.
Always use the official Trezor website to download software and access support to protect yourself from phishing scams.
ResourceDescriptionOfficial LinkTrezor Suite DownloadThe primary download for the Trezor Suite desktop application, which includes the Bridge.https://trezor.io/trezor-suiteTrezor Support/Help CenterOfficial guides, articles, and troubleshooting resources.https://trezor.io/supportTrezor Suite Web InterfaceDirect link to the browser-based wallet access.https://suite.trezor.io/web/
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