Trezor Bridge | Getting Started Guide

Your complete walkthrough for installing, using, and mastering Trezor Bridge securely.

What is Trezor Bridge?

Trezor Bridge is a background service that allows your Trezor hardware wallet to communicate seamlessly with supported web browsers and desktop applications. Unlike browser plugins, which are often phased out due to security concerns, Trezor Bridge provides a stable, secure, and future-proof solution. It ensures encrypted data transfer, compatibility with multiple platforms, and reliable connectivity for managing your cryptocurrencies.

This guide covers everything you need: installation, setup, troubleshooting, FAQs, and security practices. By the end, you’ll feel confident using Trezor Bridge as the backbone of your Trezor experience.

Trezor Bridge Illustration

Why Do You Need Trezor Bridge?

In 2018, major browsers such as Chrome and Firefox started phasing out direct USB API access for third-party extensions. This meant hardware wallets could no longer rely solely on plugins. Trezor Bridge was developed as the solution, acting as a secure background channel between your device and your applications. It ensures:

  • ✅ Safe data communication
  • ✅ Browser and OS compatibility
  • ✅ Automatic updates for long-term support
  • ✅ Simpler troubleshooting compared to plugins
Why Trezor Bridge

Installing Trezor Bridge

Follow these steps to install Trezor Bridge:

  1. Visit the official Trezor website (trezor.io/bridge).
  2. Download the installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  3. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Restart your browser after installation.
  5. Connect your Trezor device via USB and open Trezor Suite or a supported web wallet.

⚠️ Always download Bridge from the official Trezor site to avoid malware risks.

Installing Trezor Bridge

Troubleshooting Installation

If you face problems during or after installation, try these steps:

  • Restart your computer and browser.
  • Check your USB cable (use the original one shipped with your Trezor).
  • Ensure Bridge is running in the background (check system tray on Windows or Activity Monitor on macOS).
  • Uninstall and reinstall Bridge from the official source.
  • Disable conflicting apps (such as other wallet drivers or old plugins).

For advanced troubleshooting, Trezor provides logs and community forums where users and developers share solutions.

Troubleshooting

Security Best Practices

Trezor Bridge itself does not store keys or wallet information. It is simply a communication layer. However, keeping it secure is essential:

  • 🔒 Always install from trezor.io.
  • 🔒 Keep your OS updated to patch vulnerabilities.
  • 🔒 Avoid third-party versions of Bridge.
  • 🔒 If in doubt, verify checksums provided on the download page.
Trezor Security

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need Trezor Bridge if I use Trezor Suite?

Yes. Trezor Suite relies on Bridge for USB communication. Without it, your device may not be recognized.

Does Trezor Bridge work on mobile?

No. Mobile browsers do not support Bridge. Instead, Trezor uses direct communication via Trezor Suite Lite or third-party apps that support mobile USB/OTG.

How do I know if Bridge is running?

On Windows, look for the Trezor icon in the system tray. On macOS, check Activity Monitor for a process called “Trezor Bridge.” On Linux, you can run ps aux | grep trezord.

Is Trezor Bridge open source?

Yes. The code is available on GitHub for transparency. Developers and security experts can review it anytime.