🔗 Trezor Bridge — Complete Guide

Introduction

Trezor Bridge acts as a secure communication link between your Trezor hardware wallet and web browsers. It solves the browser restriction on direct USB access by serving as a trusted local proxy. All communication is encrypted, keeping your crypto safe.

This guide explains installation, common usage, troubleshooting, security best practices, and advanced tips for developers.

What is Trezor Bridge?

Bridge allows Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Edge to communicate with your Trezor device. It converts web requests into USB commands while making sure confirmations remain device-only.

Why it matters

Bridge provides consistent security features across platforms, reduces dependency on browser extensions, and centralizes communication logic.

Main Functions

• Device discovery and connection handling
• Secure command forwarding between apps and hardware
• Firmware upgrades and verification support
• Maintains cryptographic integrity of communications

Installing Trezor Bridge

Windows

Download the EXE/MSI, run as admin, follow prompts, and reboot if required.

macOS

Drag the DMG app to Applications, approve Gatekeeper prompts, and launch.

Linux

Install DEB/RPM/AppImage and set up udev rules for non-root USB access:

sudo cp 99-trezor.rules /etc/udev/rules.d/
sudo udevadm control --reload-rules
sudo udevadm trigger

Tips

• Remove old Bridge versions
• Restart browser after installation
• Check USB cable quality

Using Trezor Bridge

Bridge runs in the background. Connect your device, open Trezor Suite or a web wallet, and Bridge handles communication. Confirm sensitive actions physically on the device.

Typical Actions

• Create or recover wallets
• Send and sign transactions
• Firmware updates
• Manage hidden wallets with passphrases

Troubleshooting

Browser does not detect Bridge

1. Check if Bridge is running
2. Restart browser and Bridge
3. Update to latest version
4. Disable extensions blocking localhost

Device not recognized

Switch USB ports, try another cable, update drivers, or configure udev rules on Linux.

Firmware update fails

Do not disconnect mid-update. Follow official recovery steps if needed.

Security Best Practices

Bridge never accesses private keys or seeds. Follow these practices:

• Download from official sources only
• Keep Bridge, Suite, and firmware up to date
• Do not approve unknown requests
• Use strong PINs and passphrases

Developer Integration

Use Bridge with trezor-connect for wallet integrations:

import { TrezorConnect } from 'trezor-connect';
await TrezorConnect.init({ bridge: true });
const info = await TrezorConnect.getFeatures();
console.log(info);

FAQs

Do I need Bridge with Trezor Suite desktop?

No. Desktop Suite uses its own drivers. Bridge is for web wallets.

Is Bridge safe?

Yes. Developed by SatoshiLabs; private keys remain on the device.

What if Bridge stops working?

Reinstall latest version, restart browser, check firewall/antivirus settings.