Trezor Bridge

A compact explainer and practical guide to how Trezor Bridge connects your hardware wallet to your desktop and web apps.
What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge

Trezor Bridge is a small desktop helper that securely relays requests between your Trezor hardware wallet and browser-based wallets or management apps. Unlike browser-only extensions, Trezor Bridge runs locally, handing off USB communication while keeping your signing keys safely on the device. This means Trezor Bridge acts as a bridge in the truest sense: a limited, focused piece of software that enables encrypted, direct exchanges with the physical security of the Trezor device.

Why it matters

When you manage crypto, the separation of web UI and secure key storage is essential. Trezor Bridge lets you interact with complex websites—wallet dashboards, swap services, or NFT platforms—without exposing private keys to the browser. The Bridge intentionally exposes only a minimal API, so actions like signing a transaction still require physical confirmation on your Trezor. That design reduces attack surface while preserving a fluid user experience.

Quick setup

Download the official Trezor Bridge installer for your OS, run the installer, and open your Trezor web app. The app will detect the Bridge automatically; when prompted, confirm the device on your Trezor display. These few steps get the secure channel up and running without complex configuration.

Practical tips
  • Verify downloads from the official Trezor domain or repository.
  • Keep the Bridge up to date—new releases can fix USB or compatibility issues.
  • If access fails, try restarting the Bridge service or reconnecting the device.
Troubleshooting essentials

If your browser does not detect the device, check that Trezor Bridge is running (system tray or background service), and ensure no other USB apps are monopolizing the port. On Linux, udev rules may be required; on macOS and Windows, give the Bridge permissions prompted on install. Reinstalling the Bridge or toggling browser permissions often resolves transient hiccups.

A concise checklist

Before you transact: verify the Bridge is official, confirm the device fingerprint on-screen, and never enter your recovery seed into a computer. These steps keep the hardware model’s primary advantage—offline key custody—intact even while you use web tools.