Trezor Bridge — the secure local connector
Trezor Bridge is a small background service that allows browsers and desktop apps to communicate with your Trezor device. This page covers how to install the Trezor Bridge, why it’s required, and best practices to keep your Bridge installation secure.
What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is the official communication layer between your Trezor hardware wallet and desktop/browser applications. When you connect a Trezor device to your computer, Bridge allows Trezor Suite (or supported apps) to detect the device, request signatures, and display transaction information. Bridge is intentionally minimal — it does not store keys or relay transaction contents to remote servers; it simply enables a secure local channel.
Using Trezor Bridge simplifies cross-platform compatibility and avoids the need for browser-specific USB flows. The Bridge daemon listens on localhost and accepts encrypted requests from authorized apps only.
Install Guide
Always install Trezor Bridge from the official Trezor start page. Visit the official resource to download verified installers and follow platform-specific steps.
Windows
Download the Windows installer, run the executable, and follow prompts. You may need to allow the Bridge service through your firewall for local communication.
macOS
Download the macOS .dmg, mount it, and drag the Bridge app to Applications. You may need to allow the app under System Preferences > Security & Privacy.
Linux
Install the AppImage or package for your distro. Ensure you have the required udev rules for USB access.
Pro tip: After installing, open Trezor Suite to verify the device is recognized. If the device does not appear, restart the Bridge service and reconnect the hardware.
Usage & Integration
Once Trezor Bridge is installed and running, supported apps like Trezor Suite will detect your device. Typical flows include account discovery, transaction creation, and signature verification. The Bridge simply forwards messages between the app and the device; all signing happens on the hardware.
Developers integrating with Trezor Bridge should use official SDKs and follow the recommended request/response patterns. Never attempt to bypass the device’s confirmation screens — the point of the Bridge is to preserve local verification while providing convenience.
Security Considerations
Trezor Bridge does not hold private keys — the device does. However, you should treat the Bridge installation as part of your security perimeter:
- Install only from Trezor Official.
- Verify digital signatures where provided for installers.
- Keep Bridge updated to receive security patches.
- Limit services that can talk to localhost — prefer official apps.
Troubleshooting
If your device is not detected after installing Trezor Bridge:
- Reconnect the device and try a different USB cable or port.
- Restart the Bridge service (or reboot your machine).
- Check firewall / antivirus settings that may block localhost connections.
- Open Trezor Suite (downloaded via trezor.io/start) to see detailed diagnostics.
If problems persist, consult the official docs and community support linked below.
Official Downloads
Always use the official Trezor start page to download Bridge and related tools. The official resource ensures you get signed, verified installers and accurate instructions.
Quick anchor: jump back to Trezor Bridge section above.
FAQ
Do I always need Bridge?
For desktop apps like Trezor Suite, Bridge simplifies communication. Browser-based setups may not require an extra service, but Bridge improves compatibility and stability.
Is Bridge safe?
Yes, when installed from the official source. It acts as a local relay and does not store or transmit private keys off your machine.
How to update?
Check trezor.io/start periodically for the latest Bridge releases or use the built-in update checks in Trezor Suite.