Trezor Bridge® | Connect Your Trezor to Web Browsers

Step-by-Step Guide for Installation, Use, and Troubleshooting

1. What is Trezor Bridge®?

Trezor Bridge® is the official communication service created by SatoshiLabs that allows your Trezor hardware wallet (like Model One or Model T) to communicate securely with modern web browsers and applications. It acts as an intermediary between your hardware device and browser interfaces, enabling functions such as viewing balances, signing transactions, updating firmware, and interacting with web-based wallets. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Before Bridge, Trezor used the now-deprecated browser extensions which are no longer supported by major browsers. Bridge resolves this by running locally on your computer and enabling secure USB communication. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Official Reference Links

2. Why You Need Trezor Bridge

Modern browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave are designed with security restrictions that block direct access to USB devices. Without a local software layer (Bridge), your browser won’t detect your Trezor wallet. Bridge resolves this by securely bridging that gap. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Main Benefits

3. How Trezor Bridge Works

Once installed, Bridge runs as a background service on your computer. It listens on a local connection (such as 127.0.0.1:21325) where trusted applications like Trezor Suite or web wallets connect. The browser sends encrypted requests to Bridge, which then forwards them to your Trezor device via USB. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

The hardware wallet itself holds your private keys and performs all sensitive operations (e.g., signing transactions) inside the device. Bridge never has access to or exposes your keys. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Security Model

Bridge isolates low-level USB handling from web applications, reducing attack surface while keeping your private keys safe on the hardware device. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

4. Supported Platforms & Requirements

Trezor Bridge is designed to run on major desktop operating systems:

Since Bridge runs locally, it does not require an internet connection for hardware communication — only to download the installer and check for updates. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Browser Support

Safari and some restrictive browsers may not fully support Bridge due to their USB policies. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

5. Step-by-Step Installation

To install Trezor Bridge, always use the official links above. Avoid third-party sites which might host malicious installers. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

5.1 Downloading Bridge

  1. Visit: https://trezor.io/bridge
  2. Select your operating system.
  3. Download the appropriate installer package.

5.2 Installing on Your System

Windows

Run the downloaded .exe file and follow the installer prompts. Bridge should start automatically once installed. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

macOS

Open the .dmg, drag Bridge into Applications, and grant any permission prompts. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Linux

Install via package or AppImage, and ensure udev rules allow USB access. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

6. How to Use Bridge with Your Trezor

After installing Bridge and plugging in your Trezor:

  1. Unlock your Trezor with your PIN.
  2. Open a supported app (e.g., Trezor Suite Web at suite.trezor.io).
  3. Allow browser prompts to communicate with Bridge.
  4. Confirm actions on your hardware device’s screen.

Always verify the transaction details on your Trezor screen before approving. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Bridge Not Detected

If your browser reports “Trezor Bridge not installed” or cannot detect your Trezor:

Device Still Not Recognized

8. Security Best Practices

9. Frequently Asked Questions

Do I always need Bridge to use my Trezor?

For browser-based tools, yes. Some direct desktop apps like Trezor Suite may include Bridge internally. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

Can Bridge ever access my private keys?

No — all private key operations remain on the Trezor device itself. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}

Is Bridge safe to install?

Yes, if downloaded from the official Trezor site and verified. Always avoid third-party installers. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}