What Is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight background application that enables secure communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and web or desktop interfaces. It acts as a local bridge, translating browser requests into USB commands, all while preserving strong security. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Unlike legacy browser extension methods, Trezor Bridge runs silently in the background. When properly installed, it ensures that your browser or compatible app can detect and interact with your Trezor device seamlessly, without exposing private keys or sensitive data. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
How to Install & Use Trezor Bridge
Installing Trezor Bridge is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official Trezor Start page where you’ll find the Bridge download. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Select the version compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux). :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Run the installer and follow the on‑screen instructions. The process is quick and completes in minutes. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Once installed, restart your browser (if open). Then go to the Trezor Suite web interface or another supported web app. The app will detect Bridge automatically and connect to your Trezor device. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Confirm the connection on your Trezor device by validating the request on the device display. This ensures that no unauthorized host can interact with your wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Once installed and running, Trezor Bridge runs quietly as a background process. You won’t see a user interface, but it listens for communication from supported apps when needed. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Security Principles of Trezor Bridge
Security is at the heart of Trezor Bridge’s design. It never stores private keys, seeds, or PINs, and acts solely as a communication layer. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Key security features:
- All communication between the browser/app and your Trezor device is encrypted end-to-end. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Bridge only listens on local hosts (localhost), preventing remote access. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Every sensitive action (e.g. signing a transaction) must be confirmed physically on your Trezor device, adding an extra layer of protection. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Bridge installers and updates are cryptographically signed, ensuring authenticity. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Because Trezor Bridge is open-source, its code is auditable by the community, reducing the risk of hidden vulnerabilities. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Browser & OS Compatibility
Trezor Bridge supports all major desktop operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux). :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Regarding browsers: modern browsers that natively support WebUSB may not need Bridge. But if your browser lacks WebUSB or you are using a legacy setup, Bridge ensures compatibility. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
For example, older versions of Firefox or Tor Browser often require Bridge because they don't support WebUSB directly. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Download Trezor Bridge
Download the official, up-to-date Trezor Bridge installer from trusted sources. Always ensure you’re downloading from the official Trezor domain. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
After installation, return to Trezor Suite web or your preferred wallet interface to connect. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Why Use Trezor Bridge?
Here are the top reasons to use the official Trezor Bridge for connecting your hardware wallet:
- Seamless connectivity between browser and device without outdated extensions. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
- Strong encryption and safe local-only communication. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- Open-source and auditable, reducing risk of hidden backdoors. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
- Ensures support across multiple browsers and operating systems. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
- Critical for users whose browsers don’t support WebUSB natively. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}