Executive summary
Trezor Bridge is a small desktop helper application that enables your web browser to securely communicate with your Trezor Hardware Wallet®. Acting as a trusted gateway on your computer, Bridge handles USB communication, improves compatibility across browsers and operating systems, and isolates device-level commands from the web environment. The goal: let you manage cryptographic keys safely while keeping your private keys offline.
Why Trezor Bridge matters
Modern browsers intentionally limit direct access to USB devices for security and standardization reasons. Trezor Bridge fills this gap responsibly — it provides a minimal, auditable layer that allows Trezor devices to receive commands from web interfaces (like Trezor Suite or supported third-party wallets) without exposing raw keys or sensitive operations to the browser. This reduces attack surface while preserving usability.
How it works (high level)
Bridge runs locally as a background service and exposes a very limited local API that trusted web pages can communicate with using standard protocols. When a user requests an operation (for example, sign a transaction), the browser passes that request through Bridge to the Trezor device. The device then displays the transaction details on its screen, requiring physical confirmation for sensitive actions. At no point do private keys leave the hardware.
Core security properties
- Hardware isolation: All signing operations occur on the device; private keys never touch the host machine.
- Explicit user consent: Every transaction or key export requires a physical confirmation on the Trezor device.
- Minimal attack surface: Bridge is intentionally small, with limited privileges and a narrow API.
- Auditable codebase: Trezor's key components are open source, enabling independent security auditing.
Supported platforms and browsers
Trezor Bridge supports Windows, macOS, and Linux. It aims to be compatible with common browsers — Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and others — while smoothing over OS and browser-level USB restrictions. Regular updates expand compatibility and patch any reported issues.
Installation & setup (quick guide)
1) Download Bridge from the official Trezor website. 2) Run the installer and allow the service to run. 3) Plug in your Trezor device and open Trezor Suite or your chosen compatible web wallet. 4) When prompted, allow the site to talk to Bridge and approve device requests on the Trezor display. Always verify the website domain and the action requested on-screen.
Best-practice checklist
- Always download Bridge from the official Trezor domain or an official release channel.
- Keep Bridge and your Trezor device firmware up to date.
- Verify transaction details on the device screen — this is your last defense.
- Run Bridge only while you are actively using your wallet; consider stopping it when idle if desired.
Troubleshooting common issues
If your browser does not detect your device: confirm Bridge is running, check USB cables/ports, make sure the device is unlocked, and that the website is allowed to access the Bridge API. On macOS, you may need to give USB permissions or reinstall Bridge after major OS updates. For persistent problems, consult official support docs or community channels.
Risks and limitations
Bridge reduces friction but does not replace fundamental security hygiene. If your computer is compromised by malware, an attacker could attempt to manipulate transaction requests shown in the browser — but since the Trezor device displays and requires confirmation for each action, attackers cannot sign transactions without your physical approval. The main residual risk is social engineering or coerced approval; stay vigilant and always verify device prompts.
Integrations & ecosystem
Many wallets and services integrate with Trezor via Bridge or direct support, allowing users to interact with decentralized finance platforms, sign transactions, and manage multiple coins. Developers can integrate with Bridge using the official API and SDKs, respecting the security model and following recommended UX patterns that surface device confirmations clearly to users.
Conclusion & call to action
Trezor Bridge is a pragmatic, security-focused tool that enables modern browser-based crypto workflows without sacrificing the core promise of hardware wallets: that private keys remain offline and under your control. Install it from official sources, keep it updated, and always confirm device prompts. For organizations and advanced users, pairing Bridge with standard operating security practices yields a strong balance of usability and protection.