Trezor Bridge® | Connect Your Trezor to Web Browsers
Trezor Bridge® is an essential communication tool that allows your Trezor hardware wallet to interact seamlessly with supported web browsers. Whether you're using Trezor Suite Web, third-party wallet interfaces, or browser-based crypto services, Trezor Bridge ensures secure, smooth communication between your computer and your Trezor device. This guide explains what Trezor Bridge is, why it is important, how to install it, and how to use it safely.
What Is Trezor Bridge®?
Trezor Bridge is the official background service developed by SatoshiLabs to connect your hardware wallet to browsers and web-based applications. Since most browsers no longer support the legacy USB communication method, Bridge acts as a secure link, enabling your Trezor device to function properly online.
Trezor Bridge replaces older plugins like Trezor Chrome Extension, providing improved compatibility, stronger security, and better performance. It works silently in the background and activates automatically whenever a supported webpage attempts to communicate with your Trezor device.
Why Do You Need Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is necessary for the following reasons:
1. Browser Compatibility
Modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Brave require an intermediary service to allow hardware wallets to communicate with websites. Bridge fulfills this role securely.
2. Secure Data Handling
It safely manages communication between your browser and device without exposing private keys or sensitive data.
3. Support for Third-Party Wallets
Many external crypto platforms—like MyEtherWallet (MEW), MetaMask Trezor integration, and other Web3 dApps—depend on Trezor Bridge to detect and sign transactions using your hardware wallet.
4. Stable Web-Based Experience
Bridge ensures smoother performance for Trezor Suite Web and other online wallet interfaces, reducing connection errors.
Where to Download Trezor Bridge
To ensure safety, download Trezor Bridge only from the official website:
👉 trezor.io/start
👉 trezor.io/bridge
Avoid third-party sources or suspicious download links. Installing unofficial versions may compromise your wallet security.
Trezor Bridge is available for:
Windows
macOS
Linux
Each version is optimized for its respective operating system.
How to Install Trezor Bridge (Step-by-Step)
1. Download the Installer
Visit the official Trezor Bridge page and download the file for your operating system. The file size is small and should download quickly.
2. Run the Installer
Double-click the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions. The installation takes only a few seconds.
3. Allow Permissions
Bridge may request system-level permissions to run in the background. Approve these requests to ensure proper communication with your Trezor device.
4. Restart Your Browser
Once installed, restart your browser so it can detect Trezor Bridge properly.
5. Connect Your Trezor Device
Plug your Trezor Model One or Model T via USB, and open any supported website or Trezor Suite Web. You should see automatic detection.
There is no app interface to manage—Bridge runs silently in the background.
How Trezor Bridge Works
Trezor Bridge serves as a reliable communication layer. It operates on your local machine using a secure API, which web applications can access temporarily while you’re using your wallet.
Key points about how it functions:
It does not access or store private keys
It does not transmit sensitive data
It only facilitates encrypted communication between your hardware wallet and the browser
It works automatically, with no user configuration needed
Because the device handles cryptographic signing internally, Bridge simply passes data back and forth securely.
How to Verify Trezor Bridge Is Running
If you’re unsure whether Bridge is working, you can:
Visit suite.trezor.io/web
Connect your device
Wait for the browser to detect it
If Bridge is installed correctly, the detection occurs immediately. You may also see a small system notification stating that Trezor Bridge is running.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
1. Browser Cannot Detect Trezor
Restart your browser
Reconnect the Trezor device
Ensure Bridge is installed
Try a different USB cable or port
2. Conflicts with Old Plugins
Uninstall orphaned Trezor Chrome extensions if they still exist, as they may interfere with Bridge.
3. Using Unsupported Browsers
Some experimental browsers may need Trezor Suite Web instead of Bridge for compatibility.
4. Antivirus Blocking
A few security tools might block local communication ports. Add Bridge to your antivirus safe list if necessary.
Best Practices for Safe Usage
Your Trezor hardware wallet protects your private keys, but safe Bridge usage enhances overall security:
Always download Bridge from official Trezor sites
Keep Bridge updated with the latest version
Verify addresses and transactions on your Trezor’s physical screen
Never share your recovery seed phrase with any website
Use secure, malware-free computers to interact with your Trezor
Bridge only facilitates communication; however, maintaining good cybersecurity habits is essential.
Trezor Bridge vs. Trezor Suite
While Trezor Suite Desktop communicates with your device directly, Trezor Suite Web and third-party web interfaces require Trezor Bridge.
Suite Desktop:
Does not require Bridge
Has direct USB communication
Recommended for everyday use
Suite Web / Third-Party Wallets:
Requires Bridge for browser detection
Useful for Web3 apps and integrations
Conclusion
Trezor Bridge® is a vital component for anyone using a Trezor hardware wallet with web browsers or online crypto platforms. It ensures secure communication, smooth operation, and compatibility with modern browser technologies. By installing Bridge from official sources and following recommended safety practices, you can enjoy a reliable and secure connection to your Trezor device across the web.