Trezor Bridge is a essential communication tool that enables your Trezor® hardware wallet to interact securely with web browsers. It acts as a translator between your device and web applications like Trezor Suite, allowing for seamless communication while maintaining the highest security standards.
Unlike browser extensions that might pose security risks, Trezor Bridge runs as a background service on your computer, creating a secure channel for data transmission without compromising your device's isolation from potentially vulnerable browsers.
Trezor Bridge facilitates communication through a local HTTP server that runs on your computer. When you connect to a supported web application like the web version of Trezor Suite, the application detects Bridge running on your system and establishes a secure connection to your Trezor® device.
The Trezor Bridge login process is automatic and seamless—once installed, it runs in the background and requires no manual authentication. When you connect your device and access a supported website, Bridge automatically establishes the connection without additional steps.
Technical Note: Trezor Bridge uses WebUSB technology to facilitate communication between web applications and your Trezor® device, bypassing the need for browser extensions.
When you first visit trezor.io/start to set up your device, the website will automatically detect if you need Trezor Bridge and guide you through the installation process. This is the recommended method for most users.
If automatic installation fails or you need to reinstall Bridge, you can download it directly from the Trezor® website. The installation package is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
After installation, restart your browser and navigate to the web version of Trezor Suite. Connect your Trezor® device—if Bridge is working correctly, the site will detect your device and prompt you to begin the Trezor login process.
While Trezor Bridge is necessary for browser-based access to your Trezor Wallet, the desktop version of Trezor Suite has built-in communication capabilities that make Bridge unnecessary. This is one of the key advantages of using the desktop application.
The Trezor Suite download provides a more integrated experience with better performance and additional features not available in the web version. However, Trezor Bridge remains essential for users who prefer browser-based access or need to use third-party applications that support Trezor® devices.
If your device isn't being detected, try these steps:
Trezor Bridge works with most modern browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Edge. Ensure your browser is updated to the latest version for best compatibility.
Some firewall settings may block Trezor Bridge. If you experience connection issues, check your firewall settings to ensure Bridge is allowed to communicate through localhost.
The Trezor Suite app for mobile devices doesn't require Trezor Bridge, as it has built-in communication capabilities. However, when using mobile browsers to access Trezor Suite web, you'll need to connect your device via OTG adapter, and Bridge functionality is handled differently on mobile platforms.
Is Trezor Bridge necessary if I use the desktop Trezor Suite?
No, the desktop version of Trezor Suite has built-in communication capabilities that eliminate the need for Trezor Bridge. Bridge is only required for browser-based access to your wallet.
Does Trezor Bridge pose any security risks?
Trezor Bridge is designed with security in mind and runs as a local service on your computer. It doesn't have access to your private keys or recovery seed, maintaining the same security standards as other Trezor® software components.
Why can't my browser detect Trezor Bridge?
Detection issues are often caused by browser extensions that interfere with WebUSB, outdated browsers, or firewall settings blocking localhost communication. Try disabling extensions temporarily or using a different browser.
Do I need to manually update Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge includes an automatic update mechanism that keeps it current with the latest security patches and features. Manual updates are rarely necessary but can be performed by reinstalling the application.
Can I use Trezor Bridge with other cryptocurrency applications?
Yes, many third-party cryptocurrency applications and services that support Trezor® devices rely on Trezor Bridge for communication. Once installed, Bridge works with any supported web application.
What's the difference between Trezor Bridge and the old Trezor Chrome extension?
Trezor Bridge replaced the Chrome extension to provide better security, cross-browser compatibility, and a more reliable connection method. Unlike the extension, Bridge works with multiple browsers and doesn't require browser-specific implementations.