Trezor Bridge is a software tool that allows your Trezor hardware wallet to communicate with web browsers and desktop applications securely. It acts as a “bridge” between your connected Trezor device and online interfaces like the Trezor Suite Web App.
What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a background application that runs on your computer. It provides a secure, encrypted communication channel between your browser and your Trezor device. Without Trezor Bridge, most web-based wallet applications would not be able to detect or interact with your Trezor hardware wallet.
This component is essential for using your Trezor with web apps and third-party platforms such as MetaMask (via WebUSB fallback), MyEtherWallet, or Exodus Web.
Why Is It Necessary?
- Browsers don’t natively support USB communication with hardware wallets.
- Trezor Bridge allows apps to send commands to and receive data from your Trezor securely.
- It prevents exposure of private keys or sensitive data to the browser environment.
- Provides better compatibility than WebUSB across more platforms and browsers.
How to Download and Install Trezor Bridge
To download Trezor Bridge, visit the official page:
Installation Steps:
- Go to the Trezor Bridge download page.
- Select your operating system: Windows, macOS, or Linux.
- Download the installer and run it.
- Follow the setup prompts to complete installation.
- Restart your browser after installation to activate the connection.
Note: You may need to allow system permissions for Bridge to install properly, especially on macOS or Linux systems.
System Requirements
- Windows: Windows 10 or newer
- macOS: 10.11 or later
- Linux: Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, Arch (may require USB rules)
- Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave
How It Works
Once installed, Trezor Bridge runs in the background as a service. When you connect your Trezor device and open a supported web app, Bridge enables encrypted communication by listening on a local port. It handles all secure message passing between your browser and the device firmware.
Every transaction or authentication request must still be confirmed physically on your Trezor — Bridge simply facilitates the conversation securely.
When Do You Need Trezor Bridge?
- When using Trezor Suite Web instead of the desktop app
- When connecting to third-party wallets like MetaMask or MEW
- When accessing DApps that rely on WebUSB fallback
- When browser extensions or OS do not support direct device communication
Troubleshooting Trezor Bridge Issues
Common fixes if your browser or app doesn’t detect your Trezor:
- Ensure Trezor Bridge is running (check Task Manager or Activity Monitor)
- Restart your browser
- Clear browser cache and cookies
- Try a different USB port or cable
- Reinstall Trezor Bridge if issues persist
- On Linux: Add udev rules for USB support (available on Trezor support site)
Security and Privacy
Trezor Bridge does not expose any private keys or sensitive information. It simply allows the browser to interface with the device locally. All sensitive data remains on the Trezor hardware wallet and is confirmed manually by the user.
Trezor Bridge is fully open-source and regularly maintained by SatoshiLabs.
Alternatives to Trezor Bridge
For users who don’t want to install software, WebUSB is an alternative. However, WebUSB is less reliable across devices and browsers. Trezor Bridge remains the preferred and most stable solution for most users, especially those using Trezor Suite Web or third-party applications.
Keeping Trezor Bridge Updated
To ensure optimal compatibility and security:
- Visit the Trezor Bridge download page occasionally to check for updates
- Uninstall old versions before installing the latest release
- Restart your computer if Bridge does not auto-run
Conclusion
Trezor Bridge plays a vital role in enabling secure, seamless communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and web interfaces. Whether you’re a casual user of Trezor Suite Web or a power user accessing DApps and DeFi tools, Bridge ensures your transactions are handled securely without compromising your private keys.
Download the official version today at trezor.io/bridge and enjoy secure crypto management across platforms.