Trezor® Bridge — Secure Connection for Your Hardware Wallet
Trezor Bridge acts as a secure, local communication layer between your Trezor hardware wallet and web or desktop applications such as Trezor Suite and browser-based apps. This guide explains what Bridge does, how to install and configure it safely, and how to troubleshoot common connectivity issues while maintaining strong security.
Local proxyBridge runs on your computer, mediating encrypted commands between the browser/Desktop Suite and your Trezor device.
Cross-platformAvailable for Windows, macOS and Linux — find platform installers on the official downloads page.
Security consciousBridge only listens on localhost and requires explicit user actions to sign transactions on the physical device.
What is Trezor Bridge and why is it needed?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight background application that exposes a local API (on localhost
) which allows web pages and desktop apps to communicate with your Trezor device. Historically, browser security policies prevented direct USB access for web apps — Bridge provides a secure, user-controlled bridge to enable hardware wallet functionality in browsers and desktop environments.
Put simply: Bridge is the translator between your Trezor device and the apps you use to manage crypto.
- Enables web wallets — use Trezor with browser-based wallets safely via localhost API.
- Supports Suite — both the desktop and web versions of Trezor Suite rely on Bridge for stable communication.
- Maintains security — signing still happens on-device; Bridge does not have access to your seed or private keys.
Install & configure Bridge (step-by-step)
Follow these steps to install Bridge safely and get connected to Trezor Suite or compatible web apps.
- Download from official source: Always use the official Bridge page: trezor.io/bridge or the Downloads hub. Avoid third-party mirrors.
- Choose your platform: Select the installer for Windows, macOS, or Linux. For Linux, AppImage or package options may be offered.
- Verify installer integrity: Where checksums or signatures are provided, confirm them to ensure the file wasn't tampered with.
- Run the installer: On Windows, macOS, or Linux, follow standard installation steps. Bridge runs as a background service and listens on a localhost port.
- Restart your browser or Suite: After installation, restart your browser or open Trezor Suite to allow it to detect Bridge. You may be prompted to allow the connection.
- Connect your device: Plug in your Trezor, allow access via browser prompts (if shown), and confirm actions on the device screen when signing.
If you prefer not to install Bridge, Suite's desktop app includes native connectivity; alternatively some modern browsers with WebUSB support can connect directly in limited setups, but Bridge remains the most reliable cross-platform solution.
Troubleshooting common issues
Here are quick fixes for common Bridge-related problems.
- Bridge not detected: Restart the Bridge service or your computer. Confirm Bridge is running by checking system processes or visiting
http://localhost:21325
(port may vary).
- Browser can't access Bridge: Clear browser cache, restart the browser, or try an alternative browser. Ensure no security policy blocks localhost traffic.
- Permission prompts missing: Reconnect the device and look for native OS prompts for USB access. Some browsers require explicit site permissions for USB devices.
- Multiple Bridge versions: Uninstall older Bridge installs, then reinstall the latest version from official Bridge.
- Firmware mismatch: If Suite prompts for firmware update, follow official guidance at Firmware.
- Still stuck: Consult Support or the community resources linked below.
Security considerations
Bridge is designed to be secure: it runs locally, only listens on localhost, and does not have access to your private keys. Still, follow best practices to keep the overall environment secure:
- Install from official sources — use trezor.io/bridge or Downloads.
- Keep software updated — update Bridge, Suite, and your device firmware regularly: Firmware updates.
- Limit network exposure — Bridge should only listen on localhost; it should not be exposed to external networks or port-forwarded.
- Trust the app — only allow connections from apps you trust. When in doubt, decline the request and verify the source.
- Phishing vigilance — never enter your seed or passphrase on websites. Learn more: Anti-Phishing.
Advanced use & developer notes
Developers building integrations should consult official docs and the open-source repositories. Bridge exposes a local API that compatible apps use to communicate with devices; proper origin checks and user prompts are essential when creating integrations.
FAQ
Q: Do I always need Bridge to use my Trezor?
A: Bridge is required for many browser-based workflows and recommended for cross-platform reliability. The desktop Suite includes native connectivity which may reduce the need for Bridge in that environment.
Q: Is Bridge safe?
A: Yes — Bridge runs locally and doesn't access private keys. Security relies on installing Bridge from trusted sources and keeping your environment secure.
Q: Where to get official help?
A: Use the Support Center, check Firmware notes, and review official downloads at Downloads.