What is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is a small local application that enables communication between your Trezor hardware wallet and web-based wallet software (or desktop apps that rely on the browser communication stack). It acts as a bridge — translating secure USB messages so your browser or app can talk to the device safely.
Historically, Trezor Bridge was needed for certain browser integrations; newer desktop apps and direct integrations may not require it. If a web page or app asks you to install "Trezor Bridge", this page explains what to expect and how to proceed.
How to install Trezor Bridge
- Download from the official source: Always download Bridge only from the official Trezor website or an official prompt inside Trezor Suite. Avoid third-party mirrors.
- Run the installer: On Windows & macOS, run the downloaded installer and follow prompts. Linux packages may be available as a .deb or AppImage depending on the distribution.
- Allow permissions: The installer may request permission to create a local server or daemon; this is normal — Bridge listens locally to provide the connection channel.
- Reconnect the device: After installation, reconnect your Trezor and reload the web page or reopen the app that requested Bridge.
Example: if a web prompt shows “Please install Trezor Bridge”, follow the official link and run the installer. When finished, refresh the page.
Common issues & fixes
- Device not recognized: try a different USB cable/port and ensure Bridge is running. On Windows, try a different USB driver (reinstalling Bridge can help).
- Browser still prompting to install Bridge: clear browser cache, fully quit the browser and reopen, or try an official desktop Suite which may not require Bridge.
- Bridge seems blocked: check your antivirus or firewall — some security apps flag local daemons. Allow the Bridge process in your firewall settings.
- Stale or incompatible version: uninstall the old Bridge and install the latest version from the official site.
- Permission errors (macOS): grant the installer the necessary permissions in System Preferences → Security & Privacy if macOS blocks it.
Security & privacy considerations
Trezor Bridge runs locally on your machine and only facilitates communication between your computer and the hardware device. Still, follow these security rules:
- Install only from official sources: never download Bridge from random links or untrusted websites.
- Verify prompts: only confirm device actions on the physical Trezor screen — that is the ultimate verification.
- Keep software updated: update Bridge and Trezor firmware regularly for bug fixes and security patches.
- Limit network exposure: Bridge listens on a local port; ensure your firewall blocks external access if your setup exposes local services.
FAQ
Do I always need Trezor Bridge?
Not always. Many modern workflows use Trezor Suite or dedicated desktop apps that communicate directly with the device. Bridge is most commonly required by certain browser-based integrations.
Is Bridge safe to run?
Yes — when installed from official sources. It only facilitates local communication; sensitive confirmations (PINs, recovery seeds, transaction approvals) always happen on the Trezor hardware device.
Where can I get the official installer?
Get it from the official Trezor site or the setup prompts inside Trezor Suite. Avoid third-party downloads and unsolicited links.