What Is Trezor Bridge?
Trezor Bridge is the official software provided by SatoshiLabs (the creators of Trezor) that enables your Trezor hardware wallet to connect securely with web‑interfaces, browser apps, and third‑party crypto applications. It functions as a background service on your computer, allowing secure communication while ensuring sensitive data (like your private keys or seed phrase) remain on your device. Relevant browsers that may require it include those without full native WebUSB or WebHID support. Learn more about what Trezor Bridge is. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Why It’s Important
- Browser compatibility: Many modern browsers require a bridge layer to detect hardware wallets properly. Without Bridge, certain browsers will not recognize your Trezor device reliably. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Security: Communication is handled locally, and your private keys never leave your hardware wallet — even when approving transactions through a browser. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Seamless experience: It helps avoid “device not found” or “bridge not running” errors when using web‑based wallets or Trezor Suite Web. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Cross‑platform support: Trezor Bridge works on Windows, macOS, Linux. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Transitioning tech: As browser APIs change and older connection methods are deprecated, Bridge serves as a stable, sanctioned tool. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Installation Guide
- Go to the official Trezor start page: trezor.io/start. This ensures you're getting the real, up‑to‑date version. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Select the version of Bridge appropriate for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Download and run the installer. Follow on‑screen prompts. It’s usually a simple process. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- After installation, if your browser was open, restart it. This lets the browser detect the Bridge service. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Plug in your Trezor wallet and open a supported web app (for example Trezor Suite Web, MetaMask, or MyEtherWallet). Your device should now be recognized. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Features & Capabilities
Trezor Bridge has a number of features designed to provide a smooth, secure connection between your device and the crypto services you use:
- Automatically runs in the background when needed — once installed, you typically don’t have to manually launch it. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Supports multiple browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave — particularly when native support is limited. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Lightweight and low resource footprint. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Encrypted communication between browser and device, protecting against local attacks. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- Frequent updates from Trezor/SatoshiLabs to keep compatibility (web standards, OS) in sync. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Deprecation & Removal of Standalone Bridge
It’s important to note that the standalone version of Trezor Bridge is **being deprecated**. If you have previously installed the standalone version, Trezor recommends uninstalling it to avoid conflicts. Many of its functions are being integrated into Trezor Suite itself. Read the deprecation notice. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
When You Need It & When You Don’t
Use Trezor Bridge if you are:
- Using the web interface of Trezor Suite and your browser does not natively support WebUSB or WebHID. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
- Connecting to third‑party wallet services (e.g. MetaMask, MyEtherWallet) that require a USB connection through a browser. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
- Experiencing device detection issues or “Bridge not running” errors. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
You might **not** need Bridge if:
- You use the desktop version of Trezor Suite — it communicates directly with your wallet over USB without needing Bridge. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- Your browser already supports WebUSB / WebHID fully and version compatibility is good. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
- You primarily use mobile apps or hardware that does not require a desktop Bridge layer. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
Troubleshooting & Common Issues
- Bridge not running: Check that the “trezord” process is active in Task Manager (Windows), Activity Monitor (macOS), or in your Linux system monitor. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
- Permission issues: Some browsers require explicit permission to access USB devices. Check browser settings under Privacy / Site Permissions.
- USB cable problems: Use a data‑capable cable (not just power only), ensure the port is good.
- Outdated software / firmware: Ensure your Trezor device firmware and your Trezor Suite and Bridge are up to date. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
- Conflicting versions: If you had older standalone Bridge installations, uninstall them to avoid conflicts with the version integrated in Trezor Suite. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
Security & Best Practices
- Always download Trezor Bridge from the official Trezor domain (e.g.
trezor.io/bridge or via trezor.io/start). Avoid third‑party mirrors or untrusted sources. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
- Verify file integrity / signatures if provided. Ensure you have the correct version.
- Confirm transactions on your physical Trezor device — addresses, amounts, and fees should be displayed on the device screen.
- Keep your operating system, browser, and all crypto‑related software up to date.
- Uninstall old or unused software versions to reduce attack surface. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}
Useful Links & Resources