Trezor Bridge — Secure & Smooth Crypto Access

A practical, security-first guide to installing, configuring, and using Trezor Bridge so your hardware wallet connects reliably with desktop wallets and Web3 apps. Clear steps, everyday tips, migration guidance and troubleshooting — everything you need to connect safely.

Overview — what Trezor Bridge is and why it matters

Trezor Bridge is a lightweight local application that mediates communication between your desktop browser or wallet and your Trezor hardware device. It listens on a local endpoint and forwards structured requests to the device, while all private keys and signing operations remain isolated on the hardware. The Bridge reduces fragility caused by browser or OS updates, provides a consistent cross-platform experience, and simplifies integration for desktop wallets and web apps.

Bridge itself does not hold secrets — it’s a conduit. The primary responsibility for security still lies with the hardware wallet (the Trezor) and the way you operate it.

Benefits you’ll notice

  • More reliable connections: fewer broken sessions when browsers or operating systems update.
  • Cross-platform consistency: the same local Bridge service works across Windows, macOS and many Linux distributions.
  • Clear signing flow: web apps prepare transactions, but you always inspect and approve them on-device — the definitive security check.
  • Independent updates: Bridge updates separately from browsers so compatibility fixes can ship faster.

Tip: if you prefer a minimal background footprint, run Bridge only when you actively need it — quit it between sessions.

System requirements & preparation

Before installing Bridge, confirm the following:

  • Supported OS: modern Windows (10/11), recent macOS, or a current Linux distribution.
  • Administrator or sudo privileges to run an installer (or package manager access for Linux).
  • Your Trezor device and a good-quality cable (preferably the one provided with the device).
  • Access to the official vendor downloads page — avoid third-party mirrors.

Security reminder: only download Bridge from the official vendor domain. Tampered or unofficial installers are a real attack vector.

Install & first connection — step-by-step

Follow these steps for a smooth install and first connection. UI text differs slightly by OS but the flow is consistent.

  1. Download the installer. Navigate to the official downloads page and choose your OS package (.exe, .dmg, .deb/.rpm or distribution instructions).
  2. Run the installer. On Windows, run the .exe as administrator; on macOS, open the .dmg and drag the app; on Linux follow distribution instructions or use the provided package.
  3. Grant permissions. Bridge may request permission to run a local background service and listen on localhost — accept these only for verified installers.
  4. Start Bridge. After install, Bridge usually runs in the background and shows a tray/menu icon or a local status page confirming it’s listening.
  5. Connect your Trezor. Use the official cable, open the web wallet or desktop wallet, and follow the app prompts to connect via Bridge. Verify the connection request on the device screen before approving.

If connection fails immediately, restart the browser or computer. Linux users may need to add udev rules so non-root users can access USB devices — follow the official Linux docs for exact commands.

Security best practices

Bridge forwards messages but security depends on how you use the device. Follow these non-negotiable practices:

  • Download only official builds. Verify the domain and checksums/signatures when available.
  • Keep firmware up to date. Apply device firmware updates through official tools; verify update prompts on-device before approving.
  • Always verify on-device. Read and confirm receiving addresses and transaction details on the Trezor's screen — the device display is the single source of truth.
  • Never enter your recovery seed into a computer. Seeds must be entered only on the hardware device during initialization or restore flows.
  • Minimize runtime (optional). Quit Bridge when not using it to reduce the window of exposure.
  • Beware phishing. Bookmark trusted wallet and exchange sites; double-check URLs before connecting your device.

Warning: If you suspect a seed or private data was exposed at any time, generate a fresh seed on a secure device and move funds immediately.

Everyday use — tips for smooth workflows

Connection tips

  • Keep Bridge running during an active session to avoid repeated prompts.
  • Use a high-quality cable and avoid unpowered USB hubs.
  • Close unused browser tabs that might keep stale sessions open.

Signing safely

  • Always review full details on-device before approving a signature.
  • If a request looks unfamiliar, cancel and inspect the transaction in the app and on-chain if possible.
  • For smart contracts and approvals, understand the permissions you are granting before signing.

Migration & restore — moving seeds, accounts and funds

Bridge is the transport layer for connectivity; migrations (moving funds or restoring seeds) are performed by the wallet and device. Use these safe workflows:

Migrate from an exchange or custodial wallet

  1. Create or restore your hardware wallet and secure your recovery seed offline.
  2. Generate a receive address in the wallet app and always verify the address on-device.
  3. Send a small test amount from the exchange; after confirmation, move the remainder.
  4. For tokens on smart-contract chains, ensure the receiving wallet supports the token and network before large transfers.

Restore a seed to a new device

  1. Confirm the recovery phrase is complete and correct before wiping any device.
  2. Use the device’s official restore flow and enter the seed only on the hardware device — never on a PC.
  3. After restore, update firmware and verify account balances and addresses in the connected wallet app.
  4. If you suspect any exposure, migrate funds to a new seed immediately.

Advanced users: if you use passphrases, custom derivation paths or multisig, document non-sensitive metadata (derivation path, xpubs, multisig policy) to ensure predictable restores.

Troubleshooting — common issues & fixes

Bridge not detected

  1. Check that Bridge is running (tray/menu icon or local status page). Restart it if necessary.
  2. Restart your browser and clear site data for the wallet site, then reconnect.
  3. Reinstall Bridge with the latest official installer if problems persist.

Intermittent disconnects

  • Try a different USB cable and port; avoid USB hubs that can be flaky.
  • Disable laptop power-saving settings that may suspend USB ports.
  • Confirm firmware and Bridge versions are current.

Linux permission or udev errors

Install vendor-provided udev rules, reload rules with sudo udevadm control --reload-rules, and reconnect the device. Follow official Linux docs for exact rule content.

Suspicious signing requests

If a signing request shows unexpected values or an unfamiliar receiving address on-device, cancel immediately and investigate. Do not approve anything you do not fully understand.

FAQ — short answers

Does Bridge see my private keys?

No. Bridge only relays structured messages between apps and the hardware device. All private keys remain inside the Trezor and signing occurs on-device.

Do I need Bridge on mobile?

No — Bridge is for desktop environments. Mobile integrations typically use Bluetooth (if supported) or dedicated mobile connectors; follow mobile wallet docs for details.

How do I update Bridge?

Download the latest installer from the official site and run it. The new installer replaces the existing Bridge app. Some OS package managers may provide updates through their channels.

What if I suspect a compromised installer?

Do not run it. Delete the file, re-download from the official source, verify checksums/signatures if provided, and contact official support for guidance.