What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a small background application that enables secure communication between a Trezor hardware wallet and your browser. It replaces native browser USB access with a local HTTP interface so official wallets and web-based tools can talk to the device safely.
Why it's needed
Browsers vary in how they allow USB access and may break direct communication. Trezor Bridge standardizes the connection, improving compatibility and reducing prompts or permission issues.
- Compatibility with major browsers
- Reliable USB handling across OSes
- Minimal local footprint
Quick install
- Download the official Bridge from Trezor's website.
- Run the installer and allow the app to run in the background.
- Open your wallet web app; it should detect your device automatically.
Only install Bridge from the official source. Avoid third‑party downloads to reduce risk.
Security notes
- Bridge only runs locally and does not transmit your private keys.
- Verify downloads via Trezor.io and keep the app updated.
- Use official wallet software and check site certificates.
Troubleshooting
Common fixes: restart Bridge, replug the device, try a different USB port, or restart your browser. If problems persist, consult official support.
How Trezor Bridge Works
Trezor Bridge runs as a local service on your computer. When you connect your Trezor device, supported applications send communication requests through Bridge instead of accessing USB directly. This design improves stability and keeps sensitive processes isolated from the browser.
- Uses local HTTP communication channels
- Improves reliability for web-based wallets
- Reduces risk of browser-related communication bugs
Bridge vs. WebUSB
While WebUSB allows browsers to interact with hardware devices without additional software, not every browser supports it consistently. Trezor Bridge ensures your device works across Chrome, Firefox, and other browsers without dependency on specific APIs.
Best Practices for Users
- Keep Trezor Bridge updated for maximum compatibility.
- Restart the service occasionally if detection slows down.
- Use official cables for consistent USB connectivity.
- Do not run multiple wallet apps simultaneously to avoid port conflicts.
System Requirements
To ensure smooth operation, Trezor Bridge works best on updated operating systems. While it runs quietly in the background, having the right environment ensures stable device detection and optimal performance.
- Windows 10 or later
- macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later
- Linux distributions with USB libraries enabled
- Modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge)
Key Features of Trezor Bridge
Trezor Bridge is designed to provide a seamless, secure, and reliable communication layer between your device and web interfaces. Its focus is stability and privacy, ensuring that your wallet works exactly as intended.
- Secure local communication protocol
- Fast response times and low resource usage
- Automatic device recognition
- Works across multiple browsers and platforms
- Fully maintained by Trezor for long-term support
Installing Trezor Bridge on Different OS
Windows
Download the installer, run the setup file, and follow on-screen steps. Once installed, the service starts automatically and runs quietly in the background.
Mac
Open the DMG file and drag the Bridge application into your Applications folder. macOS may ask for permission to run external software—approve only if downloaded from the official Trezor website.
Linux
Install the package matching your distribution (.deb or .rpm). You may need to add permission rules for USB access depending on your setup.
When You Need Trezor Bridge
Most modern browsers support WebUSB, but the feature isn’t always consistent. If your wallet app fails to communicate with the device, switching to Trezor Bridge often resolves the problem instantly.
- Your Trezor is not detected by the wallet
- Your browser has restricted USB permissions
- You are using a browser that does not support WebUSB
- Your workflow involves multiple crypto tools
Maintaining Your Bridge Installation
Keeping your Trezor Bridge installation healthy ensures consistent performance. While it requires very little maintenance, a few steps help keep everything running smoothly.
- Check for updates monthly
- Restart it if your device stops being detected
- Avoid installing Bridge from unofficial websites
- Ensure your USB ports and cables are functioning properly
Advanced Troubleshooting Steps
If issues persist despite restarting the application, these advanced steps can help identify and resolve deeper connectivity problems.
- Disable conflicting apps using USB interfaces
- Clear browser cache and reconnect device
- Verify that your firewall is not blocking local services
- Reinstall Bridge to repair configuration issues