Trezor Bridge — Install, Use & Troubleshoot
Trezor Bridge is a small local helper application that enables secure USB communication between your computer (and supported browsers) and a Trezor hardware wallet. It helps ensure reliable connectivity for web-based flows and some browser environments where direct USB access is restricted.
What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge runs on your computer as a background service and acts as a mediator between browser-based web apps or desktop applications and the Trezor device over USB. It is designed to be lightweight and secure — it only forwards messages and never has access to your private keys, which remain on the Trezor device.
When Do You Need Bridge?
- If a browser blocks direct WebUSB access, Bridge can provide a compatible communication channel.
- Some web-based integrations or older OS/browser combinations require Bridge for stable USB connectivity.
- It can help reduce intermittent disconnects that sometimes occur with certain cables, USB hubs, or browser settings.
How to Download & Install
- Visit the official Trezor start page:
trezor.io/startto get verified downloads. - Choose the Bridge installer that matches your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) if prompted.
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. On macOS you may need to allow the app in System Preferences → Security & Privacy.
- After installation Bridge runs in the background. Connect your Trezor device and open Trezor Suite or the supported web app.
Common Issues & Fixes
| Problem | What to try |
|---|---|
| Device not recognized | Restart Bridge, reconnect the USB cable, try a different USB port or cable, and ensure the device screen shows the Trezor logo. |
| Browser cannot connect | Install or update Bridge, restart the browser, and ensure you use the official Trezor web app or Trezor Suite. Try using a different supported browser. |
| Permission or driver errors (macOS/Windows) | On macOS: allow the installer in Security & Privacy and reboot if necessary. On Windows: ensure drivers are installed and that you have administrative rights to run the installer. |
| Intermittent disconnects | Avoid USB hubs, use a short high-quality cable, update Bridge and Trezor firmware, and try a different USB port. |
Important: Only download Trezor Bridge from the official Trezor start page (trezor.io/start). Do not install Bridge from third-party sites or links you received in messages — fake installers can compromise your security.
Security & Privacy
Trezor Bridge does not have access to your recovery seed or private keys. It simply passes messages between your local applications and the device. Nonetheless, follow these security guidelines:
- Download Bridge only from the official source.
- Keep Bridge and Trezor Suite updated to receive security and stability fixes.
- Never type your recovery seed into any app or website; recovery seeds belong offline (paper/steel).
- Verify transaction details on your Trezor device screen before approving any action.
Alternatives
For many users, the desktop Trezor Suite includes the necessary drivers and does not require Bridge. If you encounter problems with web flows, try using the desktop Suite first. Bridge is mainly useful for specific browser or legacy scenarios.
FAQ
- Do I always need Bridge? Not necessarily — desktop Suite often provides sufficient connectivity. Bridge is helpful for certain browsers or older systems.
- Will Bridge see my keys? No — Bridge only forwards messages; private keys remain on the Trezor device.
- Where to get help? Use the official Trezor help center and community resources; never share your recovery seed when seeking support.