Trezõr brïdge® | Connect Your Web3 World Securely™
Trezor Bridge is the lightweight communication layer that safely connects your Trezor hardware wallet to desktop apps, web-based wallets and dApps. It provides a trusted channel between your device and the software you use — keeping private keys offline while enabling seamless interaction with Web3 services.
What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a small, purpose-built application that runs on your computer and acts as a translator between the Trezor hardware device and web applications (including Trezor Suite). It manages secure USB communication, enforces device verification, and helps ensure that only legitimate software can request signatures from your device.
Unlike browser plugins or direct USB access, Bridge creates a controlled interface that reduces attack surface and improves compatibility across operating systems. It’s the recommended method for connecting Model One and Model T devices to the broader Web3 ecosystem.
Why You Need Trezor Bridge
Modern browsers and OS security models restrict direct hardware access for safety and compatibility reasons. Trezor Bridge fills that gap by providing a secure, signed intermediary that allows web apps to communicate with your hardware wallet without exposing private keys or sensitive information to the internet.
- Enables secure device enumeration and pairing.
- Ensures firmware & app messages align with on-device prompts.
- Provides consistent behavior across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Reduces risk of malicious web pages directly accessing USB devices.
Core Features
- Secure USB communications: Encrypted, authenticated pathways for request/response between your device and trusted apps.
- Cross-platform support: Runs on major desktop platforms and integrates smoothly with Trezor Suite, browser-based wallets and dApps.
- Compatibility layer: Handles connection quirks, permission prompts, and device detection to create a consistent user experience.
- Firmware-aware: Verifies device firmware state during operations to prevent unauthorized or unexpected actions.
- Minimal footprint: Lightweight and designed to run only when needed, without background bloat.
How Trezor Bridge Works (High Level)
When you open a supported web app or Trezor Suite, the app sends a request to Trezor Bridge on your machine. Bridge prompts the OS to locate your Trezor device, negotiates a secure channel, and forwards transaction or authentication requests to the device. The device then displays details on-screen for you to confirm; only after your physical approval does the device sign the transaction and return the result via Bridge to the calling app.
This flow keeps all sensitive cryptographic operations inside the device and forces human confirmation for any action that would move funds or reveal private material.
Install & Connect — Step by Step
- Download Bridge: Go to trezor.io/start and download the official Trezor Bridge installer for your OS.
- Install: Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts. Installation requires admin privileges on some systems.
- Connect your device: Plug in your Trezor (Model One or Model T) using the supplied cable.
- Open Trezor Suite or a supported dApp: The app will detect Bridge and prompt you to allow device access.
- Confirm on-device: Always verify the request on your Trezor screen and approve with the device controls.
After the first install, Bridge generally runs only when needed and can be updated automatically or manually via the official site.
Security Best Practices
Trezor Bridge is designed to be secure, but your habits matter. Follow these best practices to keep your setup resilient:
- Always download Bridge from the official Trezor domain: trezor.io.
- Verify firmware prompts on your device before approving updates or transactions.
- Keep your operating system and Trezor Suite up to date to receive security fixes.
- Never enter your recovery seed into a computer or web form; seeds belong offline only.
- Limit use of Bridge on shared or public machines. Prefer your personal device for wallet access.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If Bridge cannot detect your device or connections fail, try the following:
- Reconnect the USB cable and try a different port (avoid USB hubs if possible).
- Restart the Trezor device and your computer, then relaunch the application.
- Reinstall the latest version of Trezor Bridge from the official site.
- On browser connections, ensure you allow the site permission to talk to Bridge.
- Check OS security settings that may block device access (macOS permissions, Windows driver warnings).
If problems persist, consult trezor.io/support for verified guidance and troubleshooting resources. Avoid third-party repair or driver downloads that are not from official channels.
Developer & Integration Notes
Bridge exposes a clear JSON-RPC style API for Web3 integrations, allowing dApp developers to request device enumeration, connect sessions, and request signed messages or transactions. Developers should always implement strict origin checks, verify device prompts, and avoid requesting unnecessary signing operations.
When building integrations, follow the principle of least privilege — request only the data and action scopes necessary for the user flow, and always show clear human-readable transaction details for confirmation.