Trezor Bridge — The Secure Gateway to Your Hardware

Trezor Bridge provides a reliable, privacy-preserving link between desktop/web applications and your Trezor hardware wallet. By running a small local service, Bridge lets apps send commands and receive signed responses without exposing private keys or relaying sensitive data through third-party servers. It is the recommended way to connect modern dApps and wallets to Trezor devices.

Local-first transport

Bridge runs on localhost, keeping traffic on your machine and eliminating the need for remote relays — improving privacy and reducing latency.

Encrypted & authenticated

Bridge authenticates authorized apps and encrypts messages to avoid tampering. Sensitive actions still require on-device confirmation.

Cross-platform

Installable on Windows, macOS and Linux — Bridge supports a wide range of host environments for broad compatibility.

Why Trezor Bridge matters

Trezor Bridge was created to solve real-world integration problems: browser APIs evolve, native extensions break, and direct USB access varies by OS. By offering a small, well-documented local service, Bridge standardizes the transport layer. Developers can rely on a stable local endpoint; users get consistent detection and fewer compatibility issues. Importantly, the Bridge design preserves the core security model: private keys never leave your Trezor device and every signing action still requires your physical confirmation on the device's screen.

Install & setup

Download Bridge only from the official Trezor website or verified distribution channels. Choose the installer that matches your operating system, run the installer, and start the service. Connect your Trezor device, unlock it, and open your wallet or dApp — the app should detect the Bridge service and prompt for authorization. When prompted, confirm the connection on-device and permit only trusted apps to communicate with your wallet.

Security model

The Bridge itself acts as a conduit — it does not manage keys. The security guarantees come from the hardware wallet and the user interaction model: transactions are presented on the device screen and can only be signed after the user explicitly approves them. Bridge reduces the attack surface by avoiding cloud intermediaries and by relying on cryptographic signatures and device confirmations for all important actions.

Troubleshooting tips

  • If the device is not detected, restart the Bridge service and your browser or wallet app.
  • Try a different USB cable or port (some cables are power-only).
  • Temporarily disable browser extensions that block localhost or WebUSB.
  • Update Bridge to the latest version and consult official logs for diagnostics.
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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need Trezor Bridge to use my Trezor device?
Bridge is recommended for many browser and desktop workflows because it standardizes connectivity. In some setups, native transports may also work, but Bridge typically offers the most reliable cross-platform experience.
2. Does Bridge ever upload private keys?
No. Bridge only relays encrypted messages locally. Private keys are generated and stored on the Trezor device and never leave it.
3. How do I verify the Bridge download is authentic?
Download Bridge only from the official domain, verify checksums or signatures if provided, and compare installer hashes against published values where available.
4. Which problems does Bridge solve compared to browser extensions?
Bridge reduces dependency on browser APIs and extensions, avoids extension permission surfaces, and provides a stable local endpoint that works across browsers and OSes without extra installation steps for each browser.
5. Where can I get help if Bridge fails?
Collect logs, note your OS, browser and Bridge version, then consult official support channels or the Trezor knowledge base. Avoid sharing your recovery seed or private keys with support.