Trezor Bridge – What it is, how to install & troubleshoot

What is Trezor Bridge?

Trezor Bridge is a lightweight helper application that runs on your computer and allows web pages (like wallet interfaces) to communicate with your Trezor hardware device via USB. It acts as a secure, local bridge between the browser and the device, enabling features such as account management, signing transactions, and firmware updates.

Why it’s used

Browsers have limited native USB support — Bridge provides a stable, cross-platform communication layer.
Keeps direct hardware communication local to your machine (it does not transmit your seed or private keys anywhere).
Enables official web interfaces and desktop apps to detect and interact with your Trezor device.

Note: Trezor Bridge itself does not hold or transmit private keys — your private keys stay on the hardware device and approvals must be confirmed on the device screen.

Before you install

Verify you are installing from an official source (type or use a trusted bookmark; do not click random ads).
Close browser tabs that interact with hardware wallets while installing to avoid connection issues.
Back up your recovery seed before performing any firmware operations.

Installation — quick steps (Windows / macOS / Linux)

Windows

Download the Bridge installer for Windows from an official source (verify source authenticity before downloading).
Close browsers that may access the device, then run the installer (.exe) and accept system prompts.
After installation, open your browser and reload wallet pages — the site should detect your device via Bridge.

macOS

Download the macOS Bridge package (usually a .dmg or .pkg) from an official source.
Open the package and follow installer prompts — you may need to approve system permissions under Security & Privacy.
Restart the browser if needed and connect your Trezor device; approve prompts on the device.

Linux (general)

Obtain a Bridge package or follow the official Linux instructions for your distribution.
Install with appropriate package manager commands (you may need sudo privileges).
Ensure udev rules or device permissions allow access to the USB device for your user (follow guidance specific to your distro).

Important: Always prefer the official download and install instructions. If you are uncertain, stop and verify the source before running installers.

Troubleshooting & common fixes

Browser does not detect device

Close and reopen the browser, then reload the wallet page.
Disconnect and reconnect the device; try a different USB cable or port (use data-capable cable).
Confirm Bridge is running (check system tray / process list) and that you have the latest Bridge version installed.
Temporarily disable conflicting browser extensions or other wallet software that might monopolize the USB connection.

Permission or driver errors (Windows/Linux)

On Windows, run the installer as administrator and allow drivers if Windows requests them.
On Linux, ensure udev rules or device permissions are set so your user can access USB devices (you may need to log out/in after changing rules).

Bridge update issues

If Bridge prompts for an update but fails, uninstall Bridge fully, then reinstall the latest version from the official source.
Before firmware updates on your device, ensure you have a verified backup of your recovery seed.

Security & privacy considerations

Trezor Bridge facilitates local communication only. Key security points:

Your private keys never leave the Trezor hardware device; approval of operations must be done on the device display.
Only install Bridge from official and verified sources — fake installers may contain malware.
Keep both Bridge and your browser up to date to receive security fixes.
Do not run suspicious software while performing high-value transactions.

FAQ

Q: Do I need Bridge to use Trezor?

A: Many web interfaces require Bridge to communicate with the device via USB. Some desktop apps or browser configurations may work without Bridge but Bridge provides broad compatibility.

Q: Will Bridge ever access my seed phrase?

A: No. Bridge is only a communication layer. Your seed phrase and private keys remain on your hardware device and are never transmitted by Bridge.

Q: How do I verify Bridge is authentic?

A: Verify installer checksums/signatures where provided by official sources, and always download using a trusted channel. If unsure, check vendor documentation or support channels before proceeding.

Q: Can I use Bluetooth or other connections?

A: Trezor devices primarily use USB and require Bridge for browser-based USB communication. Bluetooth support depends on the device model and official guidelines — consult device documentation for connectivity options.