What Is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a lightweight, locally running software created by SatoshiLabs. It acts as a secure mediator between your Trezor device and web applications (e.g. Trezor Suite Web, dApps, browser wallets). :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Because modern browsers restrict direct USB access for security reasons, Bridge enables seamless and reliable connectivity without relying on browser plugins or extensions. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Importantly, Bridge does **not** handle your keys or transactions itself. It simply routes messages between the host application and your Trezor device. The signing of transactions and key operations remain entirely on-device. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Key Features & Benefits
Local‑First Communication
Bridge runs on your machine and listens on a local port. It never transmits your data externally. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Cross‑Platform Support
Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It ensures compatibility regardless of your operating system. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Browser Compatibility
Bridge supports modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, etc. It overcomes limitations in WebUSB support. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Security by Design
Bridge only forwards commands—private keys never leave the device. All signing is done on your Trezor. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Silent Background Operation
Once installed, Bridge runs in the background automatically without needing manual intervention. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Automatic Updates
Bridge can update itself in the background (if enabled), ensuring you get the latest fixes and security improvements. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
How to Install & Use
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Download Bridge — Go to the official Trezor site or its Bridge page, and select the installer for your OS. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
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Run the Installer — Follow on‑screen prompts to complete the installation. The application will install a background service (e.g. `trezord`) that listens locally. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
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Restart Browser / Applications — If your browser or apps were open, close and reopen so they can detect Bridge. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
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Connect Your Trezor Device — Plug your Trezor (Model One, Model T, etc.) via USB. The host app (Trezor Suite Web or third‑party) will detect it via Bridge. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
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Authorize Connection — The device will display a prompt; verify the request and accept it. Always check that the domain shown on the device matches the site. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
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Perform Operations — Once connected, you can view balances, send transactions, use dApps etc. All signing and sensitive actions require confirmation on the device. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Security & Best Practices
Bridge is built with minimal trust assumptions—it only relays commands and never stores or accesses your private keys or seed. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Always download Bridge from the official Trezor website to avoid malicious or tampered versions. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Keep both your Bridge software and your Trezor device firmware up to date to benefit from security fixes and improvements. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Use strong PINs and, if comfortable, enable passphrases to create hidden wallets. Always verify all details displayed on your Trezor device before approving any transaction or operation. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I always need Bridge?
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If you use the **Trezor Suite desktop app**, Bridge is often not required, because the app can communicate directly with your hardware via USB. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
For browser-based interfaces (suite.trezor.io or other web wallets), Bridge may be required when browser USB access is limited or restricted. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- Is Bridge safe?
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Yes—Bridge is designed as a minimal relay layer, and it never has access to your private keys or seed. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
However, its safety depends on downloading from trusted sources and verifying that the software is untampered. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
- What if Bridge is not running / connection fails?
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Try restarting Bridge or your computer, reconnecting the USB, using a different browser, or reinstalling the latest Bridge version. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
Make sure no firewall or security software is blocking localhost connections. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
- Can Bridge access the internet or external servers?
- No. Bridge is designed to only listen on `localhost` (127.0.0.1) by default, not accessible externally. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
It does not act as a proxy for external traffic. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
- Will Bridge be deprecated?
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Over time, more of the Bridge logic may be integrated directly into Trezor Suite, reducing the need for manual installs. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}
However, as of now many browser-based flows still rely on a standalone Bridge. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}